Connor Shooks from First Tee – Benton Harbor has been selected from a pool of national candidates to attend the First Tee Innovators Forum October 8–11 in San Jose, Calif. The forum will empower First Tee teens to develop a meaningful service project in their communities focusing on raising awareness on issues surrounding education, health, and sustainability.
“Congratulations to Connor on earning this national opportunity.” said Ebon Sanders, Executive Director of First Tee – Benton Harbor. “Connor has been part of our chapter for many years, and we are delighted to see his personal growth over the years. We’re excited for him to have this opportunity to meet with other like-minded participants from across the country focused on being game changers in their communities and building their character as they pursue their future goals.”
Connor is currently a senior at Lake Michigan Catholic and is involved in numerous community and school based activities. He is a master of Knights of the Holy Temple, which focuses on service events in the local community. Connor is also the President of Student Council and participates in many other clubs and student run organizations. Connor loves golf and playing soccer with friends and regularly volunteers with the younger classes at First Tee – Benton Harbor to help them establish life lessons through the game of golf.
“The numerous activities and groups I am a part of help me make a difference in the lives of others and I plan to continue to dedicate time to give back to my community,” said Shooks. Shooks is one of 28 participants selected to attend the Innovators Forum and was selected based on academic achievement, community service, chapter involvement, leadership, essay responses and letters of recommendation.
First Tee – Benton Harbor is a youth development organization dedicated to helping young people learn life skills and build character through the game of golf. First Tee Innovators Forum is one of several national opportunities provided by First Tee headquarters to empower and motivate teens as they progress through the program and toward higher education opportunities. For more information on First Tee – Benton Harbor, visit www.firstteebentonharbor.org.