Event offers equipment, financial literacy, and healing through golf in Pasadena
From Pasadena Now, published Thursday, August 14, 2025
First Tee — Greater Pasadena will host a free family golf clinic to support families affected by the Eaton Fire, which destroyed more than 9,000 buildings and displaced hundreds.
The “Eaton Fire Family Day,” presented by East West Bank, takes place Saturday, August 23, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Brookside Golf Club, 1133 Rosemont Avenue in Pasadena. Families will receive golf equipment, apparel, access to First Tee programs, and financial literacy education. Raffle prizes will be available to those attending the financial session.
“This generous donation means everything to our youth. Beyond the financial help, it sends a powerful message: that their community believes in them and is here to support them through tough times,” said Mark Fritz, director of programs and operations for First Tee — Greater Pasadena.
The clinic is part of a recovery effort following the January 7 blaze that destroyed First Tee’s Altadena facility and $30,000 in equipment. The APGA Foundation responded with a $30,400 donation to First Tee and the Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena.
“This donation reflects the APGA’s commitment to using golf as a platform for change,” said Ken Bentley, APGA co-founder and board chair. “We’re proud to stand with these outstanding youth organizations.”
Founded in 2006, First Tee — Greater Pasadena is a nonprofit youth development organization serving more than 5,000 children annually. Its curriculum blends golf instruction with life skills and character development, reaching over 200,000 youth since inception.
Programs target ages five to 17, with tiered levels and specialized classes for teens and girls. The organization also offers tournament leagues, mentorship, and outreach to schools, veterans, and underserved communities. Fees are modest, and scholarships and equipment are provided to families in need.
Brookside Golf Club, First Tee’s headquarters, is a historic 36-hole municipal facility adjacent to the Rose Bowl. Designed by William P. Bell, its courses date back to 1928 and 1938.
First Tee — Greater Pasadena was honored by the Pasadena City Council, which declared October “First Tee — Greater Pasadena Month.” The chapter also partners with First Tee — Korea to promote cultural exchange and global youth development.
Brookside Golf Club, 1133 Rosemont Avenue, Pasadena. For more call (626) 353-4013 or visit https://firstteegreaterpasadena.org. Free.