First Tee of Sarasota/Manatee (FTSM) — an organization founded in 2000 with the primary goal of impacting the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf – announces $9,494 gift from North Florida PGA Members of the Southwest Chapter at their Chapter awards ceremony at Laurel Oak Country Club.

Through the Southwest Chapter’s PGA Golf Day campaign, the charitable total was raised directly by the hands of PGA Professionals in the Sarasota/Manatee community. “PGA Professionals have a particular affinity for helping children,” states Lakewood Ranch Teaching Professional, Jeff Bourdrie, PGA. “All of us had mentors in our lives who not only taught us golf but also taught us valuable life lessons in how to be good human beings.”

FTSM Executive Director, Lexi McKenney said, “We are thrilled to have the support of PGA Members in the Southwest Chapter. This is a great golf community and PGA Members are the backbone. Their generous donation will further advance the First Tee and Greater Sarasota Junior Golf Association mission here, especially during these unprecedented times dealing with COVID-19.”

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