“Building a community of character, one kid at a time!”

That’s the goal of the First Tee program, and it lines up perfectly with Black Hills Energy’s values and emphasis on doing the right thing. So it makes perfect sense that our company has opted to support the First Tee of Northwest Arkansas program in Lowell, Arkansas.

First Tee is an international nonprofit program that uses golf instruction to help kids build the strength of character needed to get through whatever challenges life brings. In Lowell, the program works with Hispanic and Marshallese families though the Springdale School District.

As part of the partnership, First Tee has included Black Hills Energy’s logo on its mobile unit van and on the First Tee practice building, as well as in social media posts and sponsorship recognition.

To raise awareness of First Tee, our Arkansas Black Hills Energy team recently hosted a Coffee Connection event for members of the Rogers-Lowell Chamber of Commerce and guests. About 60 people, including 10 from Black Hills Energy, gathered at the golf course in Lowell to watch as First Tee summer campers teed off and learn about how the program builds inner strength, self-confidence and resilience.

Black Hills Energy Arkansas General Manager Joey Msall, who serves on the Rogers-Lowell Chamber Board of Directors, greeted attendees with a “Call 811” safety reminder. Black Hills Energy provided breakfast, coffee, door prizes and promotional items. We received many comments throughout the week about what a great networking event it was and how glad people were to learn about First Tee.

Randy Hurban, CEO of First Tee of Northwest Arkansas, has many times expressed his appreciation to Black Hills Energy.

“Thank you all for your belief in our mission and a big thank you for serving as our champion,” Hurban said. “Team Black Hills ROCKS!”

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