by Tim Harrison
Senior Community Investment Advisor
This last spring and summer, Savage Companies fulfilled a pledge to send more than a dozen volunteers per week from its staff to tutor 9th graders who are recovering lost academic credit that they needed in order to graduate high school. Savage employees helped address a common problem among at-risk populations: that many 9th grade junior high students don’t realize how crucial grades are for highschool graduation. They get off track and stay behind, especially in math.
Fast forward through fourth quarter and the “summer session;” we can now attribute some remarkable results to these stellar Savage volunteers. The kids have regained lost academic credits and many kids are right back on track to graduate, which will completely alter their educational (and professional) careers. This will help our community in the long run—that’s Collective Impact at work! Listen to Jermaine Coston, a Savage Volunteer and Granite Park alum, about the experience:
“In just a few weeks, I began to see significant changes in the students. Not just in their academics, but also in their confidence. Knowing that someone was there for them made a huge impact.
By the end of the summer, the students were talking about their futures and careers. Even the students who were still not quite up to par were now more motivated and confident. Having someone there working with them one-on-one and encouraging them made a huge difference. Thank you for this rewarding experience, I wouldn’t hesitate to do it again!”
—Jermaine Coston , Savage
Thanks to all the Savage donors, advocates, and volunteers! This community is lucky to have your ongoing support. We’ll see you on Day of Caring!
Check out this awesome infographic detailing the difference Savage made for these kids!
