Statement from Marvin Hightower, Executive Director, First Tee Metro Atlanta

While I am Executive Director for First Tee Metro Atlanta, I am also an African-American male who grew up in central Georgia during the 1960’s and early 70’s. I also have a son, now in his mid-20’s, whom I love beyond measure and is succeeding in his life’s pursuits. These personal aspects of my life and the experiences that have evolved from them, provide the lens through which I am processing the George Floyd tragedy and the resulting pain that continues to engulf our country. As my processing continues, there are many things that remain uncertain;  however, I am certain those individuals and organizations that are selflessly dedicated to making this world a better place will elevate us from the current state and lead us to a more just society for all.  As Executive Director for First Tee Metro Atlanta, I fervently believe our organization is among those whose mission becomes even more important in times such as these. We are proud to be a part of metropolitan Atlanta with its history of peacefully pursuing equality and prosperity for all people. Correspondingly, we are proud to be a youth development organization that serves all children, regardless of race, gender, culture, or socioeconomic status.    Now, more than ever, we are dedicated to helping young people across metro Atlanta acquire the life skills taught through our First Tee curriculum. We view it as our responsibility to become even more vigilant in ensuring the life-long benefits that accrue from possessing Integrity, Perseverance, Respect, Judgment and the remaining core values we teach, are poured into each child we support. This is our commitment to the youth we serve and, by extension, the community at large. This is a moral obligation we must fulfill. An obligation that will help each young person we touch navigate through life, successfully confront the challenges they will face, and collectively help our society become a better version of itself. During a February 1961 speech at New York University, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. stated: “Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable. Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.” As the thoughts of everyone associated with First Tee of Metro Atlanta are with the family of Mr. Floyd, our city and country, we will always strive to be among those who tirelessly and passionately work to further human progress through our commitment to those we serve. Marvin Hightower Executive Director First Tee Metro Atlanta Link to statement from First Tee CEO, Greg McLaughlin    https://twitter.com/TheFirstTee/status/1267587038443786240