August 9, 2005
Early Childhood Education program receives donation

Contact: Susan Esau, Executive Director,
Lawrence Schools Foundation, 832-5000 x1941 or sesau@usd497.org

A group of Lawrence residents, known as the New Generation Society of Lawrence, have again focused their philanthropic efforts on early childhood education in this community. The Lawrence Schools Foundation received $7,500 today from this group in support of the Early Childhood Readiness Program located at the East Heights Early Childhood Family Center. The money will go directly into the classrooms at the center to subsidize state grant money for preschool education of at-risk 4-year-olds in the “Readiness” program.

The New Generation Society (NGSL) incorporated in 1997 as a 501(c)(3) organization to provide educational, volunteer and philanthropic opportunities for its members and is administratively partnered with the Hall Center for the Humanities. The NGSL recognizes that many people are living longer, healthier, fuller lives and, as a result, have the time and desire to expand their intellectual and cultural horizons. Jack Hinton, Chairman of the Philanthropy Committee for the organization, presented the check to Susan Esau, Executive Director of the Lawrence Schools Foundation, with the additional intent of exploring volunteer opportunities at the Early Childhood Family Center. According to Esau, “Nearly 45% of the Foundation’s budget goes to support the Early Childhood Education Program and the Foundation’s funds are nearly depleted. The New Generation Society’s generous contribution will help ensure the stability of this preschool program for another year.”

The Foundation’s 2005 Community Education Breakfast, which will be held at the Holidome on Friday, August 26, at 7:30 am, will also help raise much-needed monies for the Early Childhood Program. The Foundation hopes to raise $40,000 with this year’s event, and $30 individual reservations are now available and can be made up until the event. This year’s keynote speaker is Michelle Senecal de Fonseca, LHS ’78, and VP of Corporate Development with Nextiraone, London.

The Lawrence Schools Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that is committed to enhancing the education provided to all students by the Lawrence Public Schools. Through the generation and management of gifts, the Foundation seeks to promote and enhance innovative teaching and learning opportunities, the recognition of teachers and staff, the recognition and encouragement of student achievements, and effective early childhood programs.

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