Dick's to give up to $1M to youth golf charity

Dick's Sporting Goods and Golf Galaxy are teaming up to support an organization that promotes youth participating in golf.

The retailers said they will be giving as much as $1 million to the First Tee, an organization focused on positive youth development through the game of golf.

"We take our responsibility to grow the game of golf very seriously, and with this donation, we are proud to continue to support both The First Tee's mission and our belief that sports make people better," said Lauren Hobart, Senior Vice President & Chief Marketing Offer, Dick's Sporting Goods. "As America's number-one golf retailer,Dick'sis leading the way to introduce the game of golf to the next generation at both ourDick'sSporting Goods and Golf Galaxy locations."

For every new driver or new iron set purchased at any Dick's Sporting Goods or Golf Galaxy location through the month of April, $5 will be donated to The First Tee, up to $1 million in total.

The donation will support continued education for coaches and chapter leaders, enhanced curriculum and training as well as provide national participant opportunities. It will also allow The First Tee to invest in ongoing research to understand and enrich its already-existing programs.

"We are grateful for Dick's Sporting Goods' and Golf Galaxy's support of the First Tee and thank the customers who will be purchasing products through the month of April," said Joe Louis Barrow, Jr., CEO of the First Tee. "We are focused on reaching 10 million additional young people between 2011 and 2017 with character building programs through golf, and this support will help us reach that goal."

Dick'sis the largest supplier of golf equipment in the world for beginner, intermediate and enthusiast golfers. BothDick'sSporting Good and Golf Galaxy provide service, expertise and products from the top brands in golf to its customers.

As of Jan. 31, Dick’s operated more than 600 stores.