Russ Stocek in his garage with the donated items
Scott and Russ are standing next to the filled van.
This year we closely matched the donation of last year to The First Tee of Phoenix. For 2015 we had about 7,000 golf balls, 24 golf bags, approximately 28 sets of clubs, 17 sets of shoes as well as ladies clothing, tees, head covers and miscellaneous other items.
The collection was done by Russ Stocek on March 9 and March 11 mornings outside the Pro Shop as well as at his house. Russ was able to fill his car each day of the collection. He then counted and organized the items so that everyone would know the results. Scott Van Loan of The First Tee and Junior Golf came to pick up the donations in a van, which was loaded to the top including the passenger seat.
Russ forgot to remind everyone that they should bring golf balls in double bags. This would have prevented the situation of Russ chasing the golf balls around the street when a single layered bag ripped. There were only about 50 balls to catch before a car came along! Please remember next year to double bag the golf balls.
The First Tee of Phoenix is among the largest and best programs in the country. There are now 14 locations at golf courses around Phoenix. It is Phoenix’s top youth development program, which teaches life skills and leadership through golf. It was created for the purpose of providing affordable access to golf and golf learning facilities for young people from all walks of life, particularly those who otherwise might not have an opportunity to play. It was designed to serve as a place for participants to learn valuable life skills and character lessons through creative activities and instructional programs that incorporate the fundamental teachings of golf. If you would like to know more about the First Tee, here is their website: www.thefirstteephoenix.org.
Save those golf items for next year’s collection, which will again be in early March so the snowbirds can empty their garage before they leave for the season.
Thank you again for the donations.