Chi Chi Rodriguez Youth Foundation,

Mission: To educate students in a public-private partnership and improve their academic performance, self-esteem and character using the golf course as a living classroom. The Youth Foundation operates the Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club and the Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf & Family Sports Complex, as well as two educational programs: - Chi Chi Rodriguez Academy is a privately supported public school in partnership with the Pinellas County School District - The First Tee of Clearwater is a support program teaching life skills and core values through golf. What Makes Chi Chi’s Programs Unique? The most unique feature about the Chi Chi Rodriguez Academy and its programs is the land they live on. The 170 acre campus, comprised of a public golf course and driving range, serves as a living classroom for the students to increase their knowledge of the world. - Golf: Students learn core values and life lessons seamlessly through golf with The First Tee of Clearwater curriculum. - Horticulture: Students maintain gardens on campus with a volunteer who works with each class on growing vegetables that the students can later pick and eat. - Native Bird Boxes: Students along with Native Bird Boxes owner Brian Beckner, built 22 bird boxes for the golf club’s campus. Students help monitor the boxes as a part of their science curriculum. - Shadow Program: Students get to spend time with adults in every department of the Golf Club and Foundation. While learning about the various jobs, the children see how basic educational skills like math and reading are used on an everyday basis.