Why Golf?

Opening Doors Through Golf.

In the game of golf, the group that ‘plays through’ is playing more efficiently than the group ahead of it. This also requires playing with confidence and grit.

The Play Through Capital Campaign will build a multi-use Youth & Community Center across the street from the Boys & Girls Club of Greater St. Louis to introduce (BGCSTL) members, veterans groups, and the broader community to the game of golf and all of the lasting benefits that come from playing it.

Beyond the physical benefits, golf teaches the mental and social skills needed to navigate challenges in life, including hard work, concentration, problem-solving, etiquette, and perseverance. It also instills the values of fun, integrity, and belonging. Most importantly, it opens doors.

Education, Career, and Network-Building.

It may be a planned outing or a random encounter. You just never know who you’ll bump into on the golf course, and where those encounters will lead.

That’s because relationship-building is central to the game. This, along with the confidence and skills gained through playing, helps to build a foundation for success in education and any field or profession – no matter if it’s business, engineering, or medicine.

With Play Through, cart paths on the golf course become winning pathways through life.

Inspiring Programs. Amazing results.

The staff at the BGCSTL know all too well the importance of providing structure and positive outlets for kids in the neighborhood. Over the years, the club’s programs of prevention and intervention have inspired and enabled thousands of young people to realize their full potential. All while living its mission of Great Futures Start Here.

Of kids that maintain a constant presence at the club, 99% go on to graduate from High School. They finish with a roadmap for their future. They’re trained on the importance of making healthy choices with food and their lifestyle. And they’re exposed to numerous career fields, including those underrepresented by people of color like STEM.

The Youth & Community Center will provide even more opportunities for recreation and personal growth.

Chip In

Consensus Among Key Stakeholders.

Extensive engagement with key stakeholders in the neighborhood identified the most desired features proposed at the Youth & Community Center would not duplicate or dilute existing efforts in the area. Input came from:

St. Louis Metro Police Department

SLATE

Project Connect

Neighborhood Community Fair at Vashon High School
St. Louis Public Schools
SLPS School Board

Other non-profits, town halls, and surveys

And the best part? Nearly two-thirds of respondents indicated they would engage in golf activities.