Youth First Salutes Lifesaving Support for Social Workers in EVSC Schools
Over a dozen major donors are joining the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation to make sure Youth First can assist thousands of students and families through social work services and prevention programs.
Toyota Indiana, Vectren Foundation and Old National Bank Foundation are the lead donors to the Youth First Life Savers Campaign to fund Youth First Social Work services in 11 EVSC schools. These and other donors to Youth First are contributing over half of the $550,000 annual cost, and the EVSC is contributing the rest through grants and other funding sources.
“This is a vital investment in students who need extra support. We are so grateful for the donations to Youth First that help fund some of the social workers in our schools. This funding will help students avoid risks and overcome challenges, so they can succeed in the classroom,” said David Smith, EVSC superintendent. “Bringing this expertise into schools allows our teachers to stay focused on their areas of expertise – providing an excellent education for all children.”
Youth First’s mission is to strengthen youth and families by providing evidence-based programs that prevent substance abuse, promote healthy behaviors, and maximize student success.
“Youth First Social Workers keep kids out-of-trouble, on track, and in school, so they graduate and become productive citizens. This school and community partnership benefits everyone,” said Parri O. Black, President & CEO of Youth First, Inc. “We are very grateful for the generous and collaborative support from both the EVSC and our donors.”
Toyota Indiana made the first commitment to Youth First’s Life Savers Campaign, pledging $40,000 a year for three years.
"The top priority of our philanthropy committee is giving to programs that support youth and education," said Kelly Dillon, Toyota Indiana spokeswoman. "Youth First has a proven track record in its efforts of reducing the prevalence of substance abuse in area teens, and we are proud to support it with this grant to help sustain this program with the EVSC."
The Vectren Foundation has committed $25,000 a year for three years to support the services at Bosse High School. The campaign also funds Youth First Social Work services for Central, Harrison, North, and Reitz High Schools, the Academy for Innovative Studies, McGary, Thompkins and Washington Middle Schools, Evans K-6 School, and Lodge Community School.
“This public-private partnership is a perfect match with our mission to be a catalyst for creating strong communities,” said Jeff Whiteside, President of the Vectren Foundation. “By supporting Youth First, we are investing in today’s young people and the future of our communities.”
Old National Bank Foundation is also pledging $25,000 a year for three years.
“Old National is honored to join an outstanding group of community partners in what is truly a collaborative effort to help students and families,” said Kathy Schoettlin, Old National’s Community Relations and Social Responsibility Officer. “This investment in the Youth First Life Savers Campaign and the young people whose lives it will touch is truly an investment in our community’s future.”
Others contributing significantly to the Youth First’s Life Savers Campaign are Vandco Equipment, Flanders Electric, Springleaf Finance Foundation, St. Mary’s Health System, and the Tri-State Hot Stove Baseball League, as well as Shoe Carnival, Koch Foundation, Traylor Brothers, Independent Insurance Agents of Evansville Foundation, Lloyd Winnecke, and contributors to the Fund-a-Need at Youth First’s annual benefit auction.
To learn more about becoming a Youth First Life Saver and supporting this effort, please contact Melanie Atwood at 812-421-8336, ext. 5 or matwood@youthfirstinc.org.
Thank you so much to our generous Life Savers supporters:
