Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Golf Clinic Offers Respite for Eaton Fire Victims

Children displaced by the Eaton Fire found unexpected joy swinging golf clubs Saturday at Brookside Golf Club, where a free clinic offered families a brief escape from disaster recovery.

First Tee-Greater Pasadena, with sponsorship from East West Bank, provided golf instruction, clothing and financial literacy materials to youth and adults affected by the fire during the August 23 event.

“For many of the attendees, it’s their first exposure to the game of golf. At First Tee – Greater Pasadena, we take on a huge responsibility of introducing the game to the members of our community,” First Tee said in a statement.

The nonprofit uses golf instruction to teach core values including respect, confidence, honesty and courtesy. Its curriculum focuses on building character and life skills in young participants.

“The program aims to develop self-confidence and resilience that children can apply beyond golf. These qualities help kids in various aspects of their lives,” the statement said.

East West Bank’s sponsorship enabled the organization to expand its community impact. The partnership allowed First Tee-Greater Pasadena to offer the free clinic and additional resources.

The organization has maintained an active role in community programming since its founding. It continues to introduce golf to new participants through partnerships and events.

First Tee-Greater Pasadena promotes healthy lifestyle choices through golf-based education. The program combines athletic instruction with character development for youth participants.

First Tee – Greater Pasadena is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit youth development organization based at Brookside Golf Club in Pasadena, CA. Its mission is to empower young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values, and promote healthy choices through the game of golf.

The chapter serves more than 5,000 registered youth annually, reaching over 70,000 students in local schools since 2008, and routinely waives fees for low-income families.

For further information or to get involved, visitors can go to firstteegreaterpasadena.org or contact Executive Director Bob Baderian.