The kids — that’s who First Tee – Greater Charleston is raising money for. Specifically, the 25,000+ young people it serves each year. The nonprofit uses golf to help kids in Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester County build confidence, character, resilience, and leadership skills.

Diverse group of joyful young people in mint shirts jump and cheer on a sunny field during an outdoor team activity. — The course will be created specifically for kids ages 5-18. | Photo by First Tee – Greater Charleston

The organization is about 70% of the way to its $14 million fundraising goal for a new West Ashley golf campus, complete with a nine-hole course and learning center. Donors helped the nonprofit acquire a 13.8-acre tract of land on Henry Tecklenburg Drive. which 5.8 acres will be preserved as wetland.

Wooden sign over a pond reads, “All grown-ups must be accompanied by a member,” with a heart; playful, humorous tone at a golf course. — There are 11 schools are within 5 miles of the future course. | Photo by First Tee – Greater Charleston

Did we mention? The new kids' course will have only children ages 5-18 as members. If an adult wants to play, they must be accompanied by one of the course’s youth members.