First Tee-Virginia Blue Ridge Establishes Physical Roots in Charlottesville’s Ix Business Park

First Tee-Virginia Blue Ridge Swings into Charlottesville’s Ix Business Park

After nearly a decade of operating in the Charlottesville area, First Tee-Virginia Blue Ridge is finally establishing physical roots in the city’s Ix Business Park. The nonprofit organization, dedicated to empowering children ages 5 through 18 through golf, has signed a lease for a 3,700 square foot facility that will serve as its headquarters.

The new facility features offices for the organization’s employees, educational rooms for training and mentorships, as well as three golf simulators and practice areas for putting and chipping. According to First Tee-Virginia Blue Ridge Chairman Thomas Vetrano, the state-of-the-art equipment and facilities are designed to capture the attention of participants and their families, furthering the organization’s mission in the Charlottesville community.

Executive Director Derek Norberg describes the new facility as a “game-changer,” as it allows First Tee to have a dedicated space for its programs, rather than relying on partnerships with golf courses and other businesses in the region. The organization’s coverage area extends from the city of Charlottesville to several surrounding counties.

First Tee-Virginia Blue Ridge is part of a national organization with 150 chapters, providing underserved youth with instruction in golf and core values such as integrity, respect, and perseverance. The organization has worked with over 350 children in Central Virginia and provided physical education courses to thousands of students through partnerships with local school divisions.

Norberg emphasizes the parallels between golf and personal development, highlighting the sport’s ability to teach discipline, perseverance, humility, and goal-setting. The organization’s programs are led by trained coaches, mentors, and volunteers, helping children develop both their golf and social skills.

To ensure financial barriers do not prevent any child from participating, First Tee offers full or partial scholarships to low-income families. The organization relies on private philanthropy, fundraising events, and registration fees to cover operational costs.

The move to the Ix Business Park is seen as a strategic decision, with the location providing convenience for students and families served by First Tee. The organization’s presence in the park adds to the energy and vibrancy of the area, alongside other nonprofit neighbors.

With a new homebase in Charlottesville, First Tee-Virginia Blue Ridge looks forward to expanding its impact on local youth and offering more creative and intentional programming opportunities. The organization’s recent move signifies a new chapter in its mission to empower children through golf and core values.

For more information, contact Emily Hemphill at ehemphill@dailyprogress.com or follow @EmilyHemphill06 for updates.