In support of First Tee, John Deere is honoring the 2020 and 2021 winners of the Power for Good Contest. The six winners were selected from a pool of applicants from the First Tee network who showcased exemplary service given to their local communities. The students will receive a VIP Experience at this week's John Deere Classic, in addition to a $5,000 stipend towards their college education and the ability to participate in the Wednesday Pro-Am.
The Power for Good recognizes the efforts of volunteers in their local communities.
This year's winners are Kate Castle from First Tee — Tennessee, Chase Gallagher from First Tee — Fresno, California, and Abi Morris from First Tee — Phoenix. Because Covid prevented recognition of last year's winners, the 2020 award recipients were also onsite. They are Luke Boldt from First Tee — Coastal Carolinas, Vivian Guite from First Tee — Naples/Collier, Florida, and Kayla Tounalom from First Tee — Greater Seattle.
The winners were picked from a national pool of applicants across the First Tee network based on the positive impacts made in their local communities through volunteer work, participation at their local community events, honor student activities, and activism in extra-curricular programs.
“We are honored to have a long-standing relationship with First Tee. Each year this competition provides us with an opportunity to not only support the industry but also take a moment to celebrate these outstanding individuals for the impact they are making on their communities,” said Manny Gan, global director of golf for John Deere. “The winners from 2020 and 2021 embody what “Power for Good” stands for. Not only are they positively affecting their communities, but the golf industry as well, and we are excited to see what they will do in the future.”
Since 2017, the Power for Good contest recognizes the efforts of young men and women in the First Tee program who have a passion for improving their local communities. Winners are selected based on their commitment to service and leadership, impact on the community, and how their work aligns with the values of First Tee. John Deere is committed to working with the First Tee to provide meaningful experiences that use golf as a platform to empower young people.