As a former teacher, I’ve always held a deep passion for programs that uplift and empower children. That’s why this month’s Making a Difference feature is especially close to my heart. For August, we are proud to highlight First Tee – Northwest Arkansas, a nonprofit that is redefining what youth development looks like-using the unexpected yet powerful platform of golf.

“At First Tee – Northwest Arkansas, we harness the power of golf to transform lives,” says CEO Isaac Tellez. “Our mission is to break barriers, instill resilience, and empower every child, regardless of background, to become catalysts for positive change in their communities.”

And they’re doing just that.

More than just a sport, golf becomes a gateway to character development, confidence-building, and emotional intelligence. Their programs are a lifeline-especially for kids from under-resourced neighborhoods-providing not only golf instruction, but also essential life skills like social-emotional learning (SEL), financial literacy, respect, integrity, and leadership.

First Tee’s outreach model ensures that no child is left out. Through its Character Development Mobile Unit, launched in 2021, the organization brings programming directly into schools, community centers, and neighborhoods that traditionally haven’t had access to the game-or to the opportunities it can provide. This unit has already impacted thousands of children, and it continues to expand its reach.

To date, First Tee – Northwest Arkansas has served over 500,000 youth, focusing on meeting kids where they are-on their terms and in their communities.

“Our programs are built on compassion and connection,” Isaac explains. “I know what it means to grow up in a place where opportunities feel out of reach. That’s why we work so hard to show every child that they are seen, valued, and capable of greatness.”

That personal mission resonates in all of First Tee’s initiatives, including:

First Tee’s state-of-the-art Lowell facility includes a 9-hole par-3 course, driving ranges, indoor heated practice areas, and even a short-game facility-ensuring kids have access to top-notch resources no matter their background.

Beyond programming, First Tee is deeply involved in community engagement. From Back to School Drives to Holiday Toy Drives, the organization reinforces the values it teaches by giving back and creating a spirit of service.

And it’s not just the youth who get involved-local businesses and individuals are invited to play a role. This fall, First Tee will host their Battle of the Vendors golf tournament, a fun and meaningful way to connect the business community to the nonprofit’s mission. Then in December, the Game Changer Banquet will honor sponsors, partners, and one outstanding youth who exemplifies the spirit of First Tee.

For Isaac, this work is personal. “I grew up in an under-resourced community where a simple book van changed my life. That spark of possibility changed everything. Today, I get to be part of that same spark for other kids.”

His leadership has been shaped not only by his own experiences but also by the unwavering support of his mother, who instilled in him a belief in service, community, and hard work. Those early lessons now fuel his vision as CEO - to lead with purpose, humility, and heart.

“My mom always believed that no matter where you come from, you can make a difference if you lead with love,” he shares. “At First Tee, we try to live that out every day.”

His leadership has been guided by a desire to find people and partners who don’t just support the mission-but understand it. “What I’ve learned,” Isaac says, “is that when you stay true to your purpose, the right people show up.”