To say the past year has been unique is an understatement. At times, it’s been interesting, educational and challenging. But also, extremely rewarding and encouraging. The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged most everyone, including the Richmond-area youth and families we serve. Thanks to your ongoing support and the poise and passion of our entire team, we’ve had an incredible year.
Early in the pandemic, we adapted quickly to ensure that we continued to carry out our vision: “To strengthen the character of our community.” Our team developed virtual programming that enabled families to enjoy fun learning experiences while at home throughout the spring. And when our participants were able to return to in-person learning, we established new protocols and procedures to provide safe experiences. Additionally, we revamped operations to promote socially distant interactions, ranging from outdoor registers for contact-free purchases to washing range balls with antibacterial disinfectant to ensure the utmost safety of our patrons.
Speaking of facilities, we continue to be excited about our future. In May, we reopened The Tattersall Youth Development Center at The First Tee Chesterfield Golf Course after a five-month renovation. Enhancements include a new clubhouse, a new fleet of golf carts and other subtle course improvements. Similar to the Elson Redmond Memorial Driving Range in downtown Richmond, we’ve added an interactive community room, a Trackman 4 Dual Radar Launch Monitor and Simulator and a collaborative hangout space for our youth participants.
After coming to terms with Henrico County for a 20-year, long-term lease, we broke ground at Belmont Golf Course this spring. This multimillion-dollar renovation will include a restored 12-hole championship course comprised of the final holes of famed designer A.W. Tillinghast’s original 1917 routing, a new six-hole, par-3 short course, a putting course and a premier practice range. We look forward to welcoming the community to The New Belmont Golf Course in May 2021.
I’m excited to share with you our year in review. It has been a team effort, and I’m grateful to my colleagues for making the most out of uncertainty. I’m inspired by the progress we’ve made, and I’m encouraged about our future. Thank you for investing in the youth of our community and for being such an important part of our efforts.
Brent Schneider, CEO
First Tee — Greater Richmond
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