Bew program 4 19 press release
- 1. Transforming the economy of Sangamon County. Contact: Nicole Selinger 217-525-1173 x209 nselinger@gscc.org Partners in Excellence/CoL Community Roundtable & Reception SPRINGFIELD, IL – (April 20, 2012) –Last night during the Business Education Partnership (BEP) event ‘Partners in Excellence Awards’ reception at the Illinois Education Association awarded 3 local organizations and schools in their effort to create a long-standing relationship with educational institutions. Those that were recipients of awards include, Jefferson Middle School and Bunn-O- Matic, Matheny-Withrow Elementary and First Presbyterian Church, and Fairview Elementary and First Christian Church. For three consecutive years, Bunn-O-Matic employees have supported Jefferson Middle School in numerous ways. Purchasing books, providing funds for projects/activities, and most recently, funding the books that were given to the winners of the African American Heritage Bowl. In 2012, several employees participated in the ‘‘Real Men Read’’ programs have dedicated hours of service. In the spring of each year, Jefferson students are invited to Bunn-O-Matic to tour the facility, learn about the history of the company, and enjoy an executive lunch. The staff and students at Jefferson are very grateful for the strong partnership with the employees at Bunn. First Presbyterian Church has maintained an incredible three-year relationship with the students and staff at Matheny-Withrow Elementary. Church volunteers partook in the “Reading Around the World” program, assisted with the “Read 5” summer reading program, and provided tutors for the students. Donations of gently used books, weekly volunteer hours in the library, and generous monetary donations that allowed the school to purchase and provide dinner and games for Family Game Night were also contributed by volunteers. The involvement of First Presbyterian Church benefited the children and their families. This partnership allows Matheny-Withrow the resources to meet many of the needs of our students—including academic support, social skills and basic needs. First Christian Church has been a tremendous support to Fairview Elementary School, enriching the education and the lives of students for the past three years. Donated materials such as school supplies, gloves, and food for Thanksgiving baskets, Christmas gifts, homemade chair pockets, Valentines cards and gifts, and gifts for staff members of Teacher Appreciation Week were all generous contributions from the First Christian Church. Not only were the members of the church generous with donations; they also devoted time and service to the library every week. Also, a member of the congregation participates in monthly family and community engagement team meetings. Additionally, First Christian provides assistance to the school by volunteering at the Fall Festival, Santa’s Workshop, and Book Fair each and every year. These are just a few of the countless things that First Christian Church has done to enhance the achievement of students at Fairview. Outstanding devotion and work deserves to be awarded, especially when that good work benefits the children in our community. That’s why, in 2011, the BEP created the Partners in Excellence The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce 1011 South Second Street | Springfield, IL 62704 | Ph: 217.525.1173 | Fax: 217.525.8768 | www.gscc.org
- 2. Transforming the economy of Sangamon County. award. We have a vision for our community that includes high achieving students, productive workers, and successful citizens. The help was needed to bring this vision to reality, and we appreciate the partnership in the long-term success of our community. These organizations and schools have exceeded our expectations and we are truly grateful for the donations and contributions from all organizations in effort to support business and education relationships in Sangamon County. The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce is focused on enhancing the business climate and promoting and stimulating economic development in Sangamon County for the benefit of its members and the community. The Quantum Growth Partnership (Q5) is an initiative by The Chamber, local governments, labor and business leaders, to build wealth, unity and prosperity in Sangamon County. For more information about The Chamber and Q5, visit www.gscc.org. The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce 1011 South Second Street | Springfield, IL 62704 | Ph: 217.525.1173 | Fax: 217.525.8768 | www.gscc.org