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PNC Foundation Why Smart Investments In Public Schools Are Critical to Pennsylvania’s Economic Future. Eva Tansky Blum October 3, 2014. The New York Times. A Simple Equation: More Education = More Income By Eduardo Porter Source: Organization for Economic Cooperation & Development.
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PNC FoundationWhy Smart Investments In Public Schools Are Critical to Pennsylvania’s Economic Future Eva Tansky Blum October 3, 2014
The New York Times A Simple Equation: More Education = More Income By Eduardo Porter Source: Organization for Economic Cooperation & Development
PNC Foundation giving is focused in two primary areas: Economic Development Support for arts and cultural organizations Education, with an emphasis on early education The corporate mission is implemented at the local level: Dollars allocated to each market Regional Presidents chair market-based distribution committee Focused Philanthropy – The Mission
Focused Philanthropy – The Vision • Focus the power of the company around one cause • Develop a meaningful, cutting-edge and measurable program • Involve the entire company in some capacity • Enhance brand preference and appeal • Be recognized by stakeholders as a community leader
Why Early Childhood Education • Survey of employees revealed children and education as desired focus • A child’s education between years 0-5 determines a lifetime learning trajectory • Disadvantaged children start kindergarten with significantly lower cognitive skills than their more advantaged peers
Early Childhood Education • Important Cognitive Skills • Self-Control • Openness • Ability To Engage With Others
The Program Issue Early Childhood Education PNC Leadership PNC Dollars PNC Assets Resources Elements Volunteerism Advocacy Grants Awareness
Program Impact - Children $78 million in math, arts, science, and financial education grants 3 million Ready for School kits distributed 2 million children benefited from PNC grants and programs 450,000 volunteer hours by PNC employees Difference-maker for Children 135,000 teachers received professional development 626,000 educational and personal supplies donated “In 14 years, I’ve never seen our Head Start program so excited about science.” “We are extremely thankful for the volunteers . . . The children truly benefit from the individual help and attention.” – Head Start Teachers Personal Impact
Conclusion In Pennsylvania we should focus on: - An appropriate funding stream - A system of quality education that goes from Pre-K through Grade 12 It is essential for our economy It is essential for our business community