Topics / BRIEFLY : Recreation: Golf Program Also Offers Academic Aid

In a new program offered by two golf associations, inner-city youths in Los Angeles can learn to play golf and also meet career and college counselors.

The Junior Golf Program, a joint project that the American Golf Corp. and the Western States Golf Assn. recently launched in Los Angeles, offers minority youths free lessons from professional golfers, career development assistance and college scholarships.

Since the nationwide program was launched in 1987, more than 5,000 inner-city youths have learned to play golf, according to American Golf spokesman Kevin Roberts.

“In addition to providing these children with a healthy and fun activity, golf provides them with a number of positive social skills including self-discipline, self-control and commitment,” said Roberts.

Similar programs exist in New York, Virginia, Florida and Arizona.