Overview
We are helping teens take an active role in building their future
Ace guides teens to game plan what’s next with experiences that help them stand out on a resume or application, and helps them stand prepared for whatever path they choose next.
Through a series of four hands-on projects, participants are guided to explore who they are and what paths could be possible, create goals and an action plan, and build real-world assets to kickstart their next step. Ace participants begin with many questions and uncertainties and leave with confidence, greater perspective and vision for their next step.
In this program, participants will:
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- Integrate their knowledge & skills into planning for their future
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- Invest in their community
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- Explore who they are and where they want to go next
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- Investigate future paths (education & career)
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- Craft their goals & create a game-plan
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- Build kickstart assets for their next step
Eligibility Requirements
- At least 14 years of age
- Been an active member of First Tee for at least 3 years (does not necessarily need to be consecutive, and can include current year)
- Demonstrated an understanding of, and deep commitment to, First Tee’s Life Skills Curriculum according to your First Tee Coach
- Demonstrated a commitment to practicing and playing golf on your own outside of First Tee classes
Remaining Eligible After Starting ACE
ACE requires a higher level of commitment from both participants and coaches than typical First Tee classes. Therefore, participants must meet certain criteria throughout the year to remain eligible and active, including:
- Make demonstrable progress toward project completion
- Engage in at least 25% of available ACE opportunities throughout the year (could include golf days, bookwork days, special events)
- Maintain an active GHIN number (free) and post at least one 9 or 18-hole score per month during the active season (Apr. 1 – Oct. 30)
- Minimum of 10 volunteer hours per year benefitting the chapter (coaching younger classes, helping at events, etc.)
Projects Descriptions
Project 1: Golf for Life
Project 1 is an exploration into the participant’s relationship with the game of golf and incorporates personal development, offering participants a powerful framework to set and achieve goals in both golf and life, all while receiving the guidance and support of their dedicated Coach. Through multiple activities, participants will analyze their golf game and determine the role that golf will play in their future, choosing either a competitive track or a social track.
Project 2: Give Back to the Community
Participants will complete a minimum of 48 hours of community service, with 24 hours required to be focused on an organization or project outside of First Tee that they plan and document. Projects have the opportunity to qualify to receive a Make Your Mark grant.
Project 3: Plan for Life & Career Possibilities
Participants embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring passions and strengths, connecting values with possible career paths. They’ll work on their interview skills, complete a job shadow experience, write a resume and cover letter, create a LinkedIn profile, and begin building their professional network.
Project 4: Explore Educational Opportunities
Using what they have learned about themselves and the career interests they’ve uncovered, participants embark on a journey to discover post-secondary educational paths and will explore at least three educational opportunities that can help them reach their career goals. Participants will also conduct an alumni interview to gain insights into an institution or program of interest and explore options for financing their education. Participants create personalized game plans to complete high school and embark upon their future.
If interested in pursuing ACE, please contact Kyle Harris for more information.