BGCAZ Announces $300,000 Donation from Panda Cares® Foundation to Bring Academic Support Programming to Clubs

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley receives investment in academic and education programming for Clubs in Metro Phoenix through a historic partnership with Panda Cares® Foundation.

Phoenix AZ — Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley (BGCAZ) has received a donation of $300,000 from the Panda Cares® Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Panda Express®, which will support the nonprofit’s mission of enabling and enriching the lives of young people. Through this partnership, Panda Cares and Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley will empower thousands of youth at Boys & Girls Clubs around Metro Phoenix to excel in school, character and leadership.

“Panda’s partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America furthers our commitment to impact and inspire a brighter future through health and education, creating powerful learning pathways and focused care for the holistic well-being of youth nationwide,” said Dr. Peggy Cherng, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Panda Express. “This donation brings us one step closer to achieving our long-term vision of building strong communities and fostering the growth of our young leaders.”

“Throughout the pandemic, Panda Express and Panda Cares Foundation have been investing in our youth with delicious meals, books, masks and fun programming. Giving young people books to take home and enjoy with parents and siblings encourages reading and builds on our work helping youth build their literacy skills. We are beyond grateful for Panda’s continued support and active engagement with our Clubs,” said Marcia Mintz, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley.  

The national partnership will build on Panda Cares mission to support children and families in underserved communities under the pillars of health and education. With a mutual commitment to helping more youth reach their full academic potential through learning initiatives that are responsive to the unique needs of each young learner, Panda Cares monetary donation to local Boys & Girls Clubs will ensure more than 500 Boys & Girls Clubs will receive funding to provide high-quality in-person and virtual learning opportunities. The donation will also help pilot Panda Cares Centers of Hope, dedicated areas at BGCA that foster equity by delivering high-quality Club experiences that fuel the holistic needs of learning.

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About Panda Express 
On a mission to inspire better lives, Panda Express® is the largest Asian dining concept in the U.S. Family-owned and operated since 1983 by co-founders and co-CEOs Andrew and Peggy Cherng, Panda Express is best known as a trailblazer for creating a wide variety of industry-first recipes, including its best seller the Original Orange Chicken® and award-winning Honey Walnut Shrimp™, which have defined the category of authentic American Chinese cuisine. Each dish at Panda Express, including the Wok Smart® selections, is thoughtfully crafted with quality ingredients and inspired by bold Chinese flavors and culinary principles. The restaurant brand has more than 2,200 locations and has introduced American Chinese cuisine to twelve international countries. 

Powered by this global family of associates, Panda Cares®, the philanthropic arm of Panda Express, has raised more than $237 million and dedicated countless volunteer hours in bettering the health and education for over 12 million youths, as well as supporting communities in need since 1999. In 2020, the organization established the Panda Cares Scholars Program to provide the necessary funding, academic support and leadership development to help high school and college students learn, lead and thrive towards a bright future. For more information, visit pandaexpress.com or pandacares.org.

Vari® Partners with Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley to Create the Classroom of the Future

Mesa Arts Academy Will Receive $200,000 Update in Classroom Environment

Phoenix – Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley students at the Mesa Arts Academy will start the 2021-2022 school year in style with new standing school desks by Vari, a workspace innovation company. The Vari standing school desks are designed to encourage and allow students to move during class. The $200,000 product donation is intended to help improve classroom learning and strengthen the company’s commitment to the Phoenix community.

“As schools start to return to the new normal, the question remains: ‘what does the classroom of the future look like?’” says Miranda Koperno, principal of Mesa Arts Academy, a charter school of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley.”Vari’s donation of new standing desks for our classrooms will allow students who have been connecting from couches and kitchens for a year to start their school year in a space that allows them the flexibility to learn in a way they are most comfortable.” 

A Fresh Start and a Bright Future

Standing school desks are designed to encourage movement throughout the day. Research shows that learning in active classrooms can improve student cognition, health outcomes and behavior. Additional health and behavioral benefits include:

  • Students with the freedom of movement in the classroom experience benefits including a 15 percent increase in engagement in the classroom.
  • Moving more and sitting less in class can lead to a three to five percent improvement on test scores.
  • Standing desks can increase calorie burn by 17-35 percent and decrease BMI percentile by five percent.
  • Achieving and maintaining a healthier weight is linked to increased confidence and self-esteem, which are directly tied to attendance rates. 

“I’m proud that Vari is among local volunteer agencies that support the wonderful mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley and the Mesa Arts Academy,” says Craig Storey, chief financial officer at Vari. “It’s incredible to see firsthand the powerful impact that the organization has in the lives of the children that they serve.”

Classroom of the Future

The Mesa Arts Academy will host an open house on Tuesday, July 27 for faculty and parents to preview the new active classroom environment. Storey and Lisa Teman-Rosenburg, Phoenix regional sales director for Vari, will attend.

In addition to standing school desks, Vari donated its best-selling electric standing desks and conference tables for Mesa Arts Academy faculty to use. Vari has a regional showroom for people to experience its products located at 5080 N 40th St Suite 455, Phoenix, AZ 85018. 

Vari has donated more than $5 million worth of products to nonprofit organizations since 2018. The award-winning Vari Community Giving Program focuses on product donations to alleviate operational costs so nonprofits can put their resources back into the community. 

“The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley is an organization that is critical to supporting the young people in our local community,” says Teman-Rosenburg. “We are looking forward to displaying the students’ incredible art in our showroom and continuing to serve as partners.”

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About Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley  

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley offers affordable after-school and summer programs for 16,000+ young people in grades K-12. At Clubs across the Valley, BGCAZ provides award-winning programs designed to change the lives of young people. For over 70 years, BGCAZ has been creating equity and opportunity for youth through academic, social, and workforce opportunities. We help young people make healthy decisions and focus on social and emotional development to build resilient young adults. Most importantly, we work to develop strong character and leadership skills by creating positive connections to caring adults and their community. For more information: visit bgcaz.org.

 

About Vari
A workspace innovation company, Vari helps growing organizations unlock the potential of their space and their people. From a collection of office furniture to workspaces offering space-as-a-service, the company makes it easy for high-growth businesses to scale and flex their office space. Organizations all over the world — including over 98% of the Fortune 500 — use Vari products, which are tested and certified to the highest industry standards. 

Bank of America Connects Valley Youth to Workforce Success Through Paid Summer Internship

 

Student Leaders program and Boys & Girls Clubs connect young people to jobs, skills-building and opportunities to strengthen our community

Phoenix  – The five Valley students selected as Bank of America’s Student Leaders have started their paid summer internship experience of workforce skills, leadership, and civic engagement with local nonprofit Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley. This year, students are earning $17 per hour and have the option to voluntarily participate in in-person activities as part of the internship. 

Without access to career skills-building opportunities like the Student Leaders program, many young people may be left behind from a fast-changing job market, leading to higher rates of youth unemployment. As part of its commitment to workforce development, Bank of America also has invested $171,000 to support Youth Employment programs through Boys & Girls Clubs across Arizona. In addition, the bank is connecting teens and young adults to paid jobs and internships through additional partnerships with organizations such as Arizona State University and Pima Community College. 

“Bank of America remains committed to supporting young adults in Phoenix by investing in a broad ecosystem that connects them to jobs, community engagement opportunities and leadership development,” said Benito Almanza, president, Bank of America Phoenix. “We recognize young adults are the future of our community, which is why programs like Student Leaders are one way we can provide paid opportunities for students to gain job experience while developing a diverse pipeline of talent as they enter the local workforce.”

The complete Class of 2021 Arizona Bank of America Student Leaders are:

  • Bryan, Laveen, Betty H. Fairfax High School
  • Katelyn, Scottsdale, BASIS Scottsdale
  • Gabriela, Glendale, Independence High School
  • Luca, Mesa, BASIS Mesa
  • Katherine, Chandler, BASIS Chandler
  • Alex, Tucson, BASIS Tucson North 
  • Jimena, Tucson, Salpointe Catholic High School

The Student Leaders program, which started in 2004, recognizes 300 community-focused juniors and seniors from across the U.S. annually. The Phoenix-based Student Leaders are engaging in an eight-week paid internship and participating in programming that includes a collaborative, mentor-focused project working closely with Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley through their AZYouthforce Program. 

In addition, the students received Chromebooks and are participating virtually in sessions on the vital role nonprofits play in advancing community health and the importance of public-private partnerships to drive social change while building financial acumen. As part of this summer’s program, Student Leaders just completed a virtual Summit in partnership with the Close Up Foundation to participate in Stanford University’s Young Democracy at Home program, which encourages conversation about current issues facing young people today. 

Bank of America
At Bank of America, we’re guided by a common purpose to help make financial lives better, through the power of every connection. We’re delivering on this through responsible growth with a focus on our environmental, social and governance (ESG) leadership. ESG is embedded across our eight lines of business and reflects how we help fuel the global economy, build trust and credibility, and represent a company that people want to work for, invest in and do business with. It’s demonstrated in the inclusive and supportive workplace we create for our employees, the responsible products and services we offer our clients, and the impact we make around the world in helping local economies thrive. An important part of this work is forming strong partnerships with nonprofits and advocacy groups, such as community, consumer and environmental organizations, to bring together our collective networks and expertise to achieve greater impact. Learn more at about.bankofamerica.com, and connect with us on Twitter (@BofA_News).

For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom. Click here to register for news email alerts.

www.bankofamerica.com

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Reporters May Contact:

Britney Sheehan
Bank of America
425.533.4531
britney.w.sheehan@bofa.com   

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley Announced as 2020 Impact Awards Recipient

Two to be chosen as 2021 Businesses of the Year at IMPACT Awards Luncheon on May 13th

Boys & Girls of the Valley was announced as one of eight local companies to receive an IMPACT Award at the Greater Phoenix Chamber’s 34th Annual IMPACT Awards. The IMPACT Awards honor the accomplishments of small and large Valley businesses and the positive influence they have on the community and economy. 

“For 75 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley has been impacting the lives of working families and youth with our after school, summer and workforce development programs. This recognition as Community Champion from the Greater Phoenix Chamber is particularly meaningful in a year where every business has been tested and we understand now, more than ever before, the critical importance of quality out-of-schooltime care for working families,” said Marcia Mintz, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley.  

“The Greater Phoenix Chamber is proud to honor this year’s IMPACT Award recipients. These businesses represent the innovation and development happening in Greater Phoenix, and we are thrilled to shed light on their incredible work,” said Greater Phoenix Chamber President and CEO Todd Sanders. “We look forward to seeing their continued investment in the region as they contribute to economic prosperity and community connectivity in Arizona for years to come.”

The 2021 IMPACT Award recipients are:

More Than 250 Employees:

250 Employees or Fewer:

General Award Information

For more than three decades, the Greater Phoenix Chamber has honored and recognized the best of the best in Valley businesses. The Greater Phoenix Chamber celebrates the accomplishments of businesses and the impact they make on the Greater Phoenix business community. The Chamber highlights companies with a strong footprint in the Valley that are deserving of special recognition.

Follow online:

www.bgcaz.org and @BGCArizona 

Learn more:

http://www.phoenixchamber.com/impact2021

Governor Ducey Announces Nearly $27 Million To Support K-12 Students

PHOENIX —Governor Doug Ducey today announced Arizona is distributing $26.5 million to support Summer learning programs, reach struggling students, enhance student achievement and expand tutoring opportunities.

“Our teachers, students and families have worked hard to stay on track and ensure Arizona kids have all the support they need,” said Governor Ducey. “We need to keep up this momentum. That’s why we’re providing additional dollars to avoid the Summer slide, maintain student engagement, provide tutoring, enhance educators’ professional development, and collect data on student outcomes. The effects of the pandemic don’t go away just because many students are back in the classroom, and we will continue to work with school leaders and educators to make sure Arizona kids remain on the path to success.”

Addressing the impact of the pandemic on students and learning progress has been a top priority among education experts, media and community leaders. A recent story from the Arizona Republic covers examples statewide.

The new spending initiative, totaling $26,525,000, will advance Summer learning opportunities and prepare students for the next school year. Below is more information on the funding:

Project Momentum: $17.5M
Starting Summer 2021, through Summer 2023

  • Build upon the strategic effort with Project Momentum Arizona to scale up our existing partnership from three districts (Avondale ESD, Wickenburg USD and Deer Valley USD) to include additional systems serving more than 100,000 Arizona students across the state.
  • The success this investment builds upon is significant – When the project started in 2015, Avondale ESD did not have any A-rated schools. Today, four schools have earned an A, and more are well on their way. By 2018, Avondale had double-digit growth in math and English — double, and triple the average growth rate of the State average, respectively. In Wickenburg, Vulture Peak Middle School grew 8% in math in just one year.

Boys and Girls Clubs Summer Programming: $5M
Starting immediately, through Summer 2021

  • Clubs will open for extended hours to deliver academic success programs designed to mitigate learning loss, particularly among underserved youth. Youth will also be able to participate in full-day programs that include meals, gym time, outdoor play, art, and music.
  • Funding for these summer programs will cover scholarships to serve 4,000 youth per week for eight weeks, at locations all across Arizona.

Graduation Alliance – Engaging disconnected students: $2.4M
Starts immediately, continues through the first semester of the upcoming school year

  • Provides outreach counseling, academic coaching, technical assistance and additional support to students who are deemed disconnected by their school district and will serve approximately 20,000 students.

Center for the Future of Arizona – Beat the Odds Principals Cohort: $700,000
Summer 2021 and beyond

  • This funding doubles the investment made with previous GEER funding, which is currently being used to train 125 principals, impacting 48,600 students, spread across six counties.

Teach for America – Ignite Tutoring: $500,000
2021-22 School Year

  • This funding will support approximately 150 tutors, serve 8-10 schools, and provide approximately 400-500 hours of support per week.

Jobs for Arizona Graduates (JAG): $300,000
Summer 2021

  • JAG will provide support to offer a summer section of the JAG Course that will connect a group of students (20-40 depending on the campus) and provide support needed to re-engage in summer courses while also preparing for a full return to school in the Fall. Within JAG’s strengths, this will focus heavily on peer to peer connection, development of study skills, school success strategies, organization, time management and more.
  • The program will support up to 20 sites, and potentially up to 800 students.

FosterEd Data Collection and Review: $125,000
Work will begin immediately

  • Conduct an updated statewide analysis of the education outcomes for all youth in state care, helping to understand where need remains greatest and what the current state of education outcomes are since this report was first published in 2015, and again in 2018.

The dollars being distributed by the state come from Governor’s Emergency Education Relief funding, part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Additional GEER funding announcements will be made in the coming weeks.

BACKGROUND

On June 24, Governor Ducey announced $69.2 million in GEER funding for Arizona schools and students in greatest need. The targeted investments addressed issues like helping expand broadband, supporting innovative programs, and recruiting future teachers.

On October 15, Governor Ducey announced $500,000 in GEER funding to continue expanding efforts across the state to increase high quality education options. The dollars were distributed by A for Arizona and supported the creation of effective small learning models and community partnerships that target students and families in need.

On November 10, the Governor, in partnership with Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman, announced $19 million in GEER funding to support schools and students most impacted by COVID-19. The dollars helped schools with teacher development, teacher stipends, reading and math curriculum, summer education resources and more.

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ASA Partners with Boys & Girls Club and Mesa PD for Four-Week Soccer Program

PHOENIX (Friday, February 19, 2021) — Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley’s Grant Woods Branch will be hosting a four-week soccer program that includes practices and games for players grades K-8 starting on Monday, February 22.

Leading these practice sessions and games will be Officers from the Mesa Police Department who have attended a U.S. Soccer Grassroots Coaching License course hosted by the Arizona Soccer Association.

“The Mesa Police Department is happy to join the Arizona Soccer Association and Boys & Girls Club – Grant Woods Branch with the goal of promoting the physical, mental and emotional development of the youth of Arizona through soccer,” said Sargeant Sheehan, Youth Development Chair. “This is a great opportunity to create positive connections between police officers and the youth while promoting healthy choices and developing strong character.”

“Soccer is one of the world’s leading sports and for many families, a clinic like this can be out of financial reach. This partnership with the Mesa Police Department and the Arizona Soccer Association will offer our members skill-building, and more importantly, teach them the importance of sportsmanship and teamwork. After many months away from school and traditional recreation, our members are ready for this program and we are excited for the teams to get on the field,” said Marcia Mintz, CEO for Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley. “For our Club parents and players, this is a unique opportunity to get to know the Mesa officers as coaches and mentors and that builds community for the long-term.”

The soccer program will be held from 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM with practices on Mondays and games on Wednesdays. The clinic is open to the Club members and non-members. Parents can register their students at the Boys & Girls Club – Grant Woods Branch and for any questions please contact Jaime Fernandez at 480-844-0963.

Schedule
Monday, February 22nd (Practice)
Wednesday, February 24th (Game)
Monday, March 1st (Practice)
Wednesday, March 3rd (Game)
Monday, March 8th (Practice)
Wednesday, March 10th (Game)
Monday, March 15th (Practice)
Wednesday, March 17th (Game)

“Soccer has a way of connecting those in the community and the ASA was honored to host a coaching course for Officers in the Mesa Police Department,” said ASA Technical Director, Chris Blundell. “The Officers received coaching training and we know they are going to deliver what will be an unforgettable clinic for youth at the Boys & Girls Club – Grant Woods Branch.”

One of the priority outcomes for Boys & Girls Clubs programming is Healthy Choices and programs like this that bring together recreation, competition, and teamwork help students make good choices on the field, in the classroom, and at home.

In the News

Fox 10

AZ Family – Channels 3 and 5

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Thank you to the Valley of the Sun United Way for your support of quality after school programs at our BGCAZ Clubs. Learn More