Focus On Renewal has received a $20,000 grant from the PNC Foundation to fund its Reader’s Theater Program at the Father Ryan Arts Center, a program of Focus On Renewal (FOR).
Since 2008, more than 700 elementary school students have traveled to the Father Ryan Arts Center during the school day for Reader’s Theater – a highly successful program in which the children improve their vocabulary, listening comprehension and reading fluency while being introduced to theater.
The grant from the PNC Foundation, which receives its principal funding from The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC), will allow the Father Ryan Arts Center to offer Reader’s Theater to 145 additional students in 2012 and award $1,500 in scholarships to children from low-income families to participate in the arts center’s fee-based arts education programs.
Geoffrey Stillson, FOR’s interim executive director, said, “We’re pleased the PNC Foundation selected Focus On Renewal for this grant. While some of our programs draw students from all age groups in the Pittsburgh region, we are particularly committed to the children in our immediate community ? many of whom come from low-income families. This grant will help children improve their language and reading skills without charge and provide arts education opportunities to youth who could not otherwise afford them.”
Mary Ellen Sullivan, community consultant with PNC Community Development Banking, added, “Studies have proven that an arts-rich environment helps children succeed in school. Our investment represents a commitment to the rich, cultural energy that has distinguished western Pennsylvania and furthers our investment in achievement through the arts.”
With a vision of empowering individuals of all ages and developing successful community partnerships, educational programs and outreach initiatives, the Father Ryan Arts Center provides numerous year-round creative opportunities. These include classes, workshops, exhibits and performances that encourage creative expression and development, as well as an understanding and appreciation for different cultures and perspectives.
About the Organizations
The PNC Foundation, which receives its principal funding from The PNC Financial Services Group (www.pnc.com), actively supports organizations that provide services for the benefit of communities in which it has a significant presence. The foundation focuses its philanthropic mission on early childhood education and community and economic development, which includes the arts and culture. PNC has extended its signature cause, PNC Grow Up Great, by $250 million over 10 years to enhance early childhood education and school readiness.
Since 1969, Focus On Renewal has provided critical support services to the surrounding communities, including healthcare, emergency food, early childhood and arts education, housing for older/disabled adults and comprehensive family services.