To be successful tomorrow, there needs to be a basic education today. This is what Sun United Way, the Balsz Elementary School District (BESD), other community partners and the Desert Schools Federal Credit Union hope to achieve by working collectively.
The credit union, the largest not-for-profit membership-based financial institution in the state of Arizona, has pledged its support with a $150,000, three-year educational grant for the ‘Balsz Promise Neighborhood project,’ in a concerted effort to support long-term education in the valley.
“Desert Schools believes that being a good corporate citizen in the local community is more than a mantra; it’s truly at the heart of everything we do,” noted Susan Frank, CEO of Desert Schools Federal Credit Union.
This not-for-profit cooperative has been serving members for more than 70 years with stellar service, innovative products, community outreach and education, while Valley of the Sun United Way has been working to transform lives in communities. They hope to lay the groundwork and create a strong foundation for long-term prosperity in the valley community.
Sun United has been working hard to develop a long-term plan to ensure that children in the BSED area, especially in the eastern part of Phoenix, Arizona, go through schooling and enter college or the workforce. Sun United Way will reportedly provide added support for likely high school dropouts. A high percentage of the Balsz community is living below the poverty line.
In addition to this program, Balsz Advisory and youth councils are expected to get together to prepare children for schooling and increase the chances of college completion. Community scan implementation will be used to identify the needs of families and students and see what can be done to achieve improved student success.
“We are committed to building strong, resilient communities, and that starts with great partnerships with organizations that share our vision,” added Frank.
Desert Schools Federal Credit Union, the largest not-for-profit membership-based financial institution in the state of Arizona, announced that it has been selected by Toastmasters International and the organization's District 3 Governor as the 2012 award recipient for community service and leadership for the state of Arizona.
Edited by Amanda Ciccatelli