First Tee — Phoenix officially launched Inspira, a new initiative created to help more Latino youth gain access to programs that build confidence, develop leadership skills, and foster growth through the game of golf. The initiative was celebrated at a community launch event held May 21, where local leaders, partners, and families came together to spotlight the importance of creating inclusive spaces where young people can grow and succeed.
For more than 20 years, First Tee — Phoenix has used the sport of golf as a tool to teach life skills and values like confidence, respect, and perseverance. Inspira builds on this foundation with culturally responsive outreach that removes barriers such as cost, awareness, and representation to make First Tee — Phoenix programs more accessible for Latino families.
“This initiative is about belonging,” said Erin McDonough, CEO of First Tee — Phoenix. “Latino youth deserve access to the same opportunities that help build character, leadership, and long-term success. Inspira is our commitment to making that happen.”
First Tee — Phoenix recognizes that golf has often felt out of reach for many Latino families. Cultural disconnects, financial barriers, and limited exposure have contributed to this underrepresentation.
Latino students in Arizona represented nearly 50% of the public student population throughout the 2023–2024 school year, yet they remain underrepresented in extracurricular and leadership development programs. Through Inspira, First Tee — Phoenix responds to this gap by offering:
- Culturally relevant curriculum
- Mentorship and leadership development
- Scholarships and fee waivers
- Partnerships with trusted schools, churches, and community organizations
First Tee — Phoenix currently reaches nearly 100,000 elementary and middle school students through its school-based PE program, and serves more than 2,000 youth and teens through its on-course curriculum at 16 golf facilities across Maricopa County. With Inspira, the organization is expanding these efforts to ensure more Latino families feel welcomed, supported, and connected.
Ana Lozano, a parent whose children have participated in First Tee — Phoenix programs, shared, “My kids didn’t just learn how to golf. They became more confident and respectful. Programs like this make a difference not only in their lives but in our whole family.”
First Tee — Phoenix invites community leaders, donors, and partners to support the growth of Inspira and help provide meaningful opportunities for the next generation of leaders.
First Tee — Phoenix is a youth development organization that empowers young people through the game of golf. By combining life skills and character education with accessible golf instruction, First Tee helps kids and teens gain the tools they need to thrive in school and life.
