California

ShareFest Receives $10,000 Grant for Educational Programming

On October 29, State Farm Agent Frank Leon presented ShareFest with the $10,000 check and spoke about his personal passion for the organization’s efforts to help students develop and strengthen basic skills in order to pass the California High School Exit Exam.

“Having grown up in the Wilmington community, I experienced such a sense of pride that State Farm Insurance is involved at a local level with organizations such as ShareFest,” Frank said. “[They] have done – and will continue to do – amazing work at Avalon High School and in the Wilmington community as a whole.”

Since ShareFest’s involvement with Avalon High School began, Avalon’s graduation numbers have more than doubled. Fifty-three at risk youth completed their requirements for graduation during the 2009-2010 school year.

“ShareFest is thrilled and excited to be the recipient of this grant from State Farm Insurance, so we may continue to enhance the lives of Avalon’s youth and bring programs that students are interested in,” said ShareFest Executive Director Chad Mayer.

In addition to helping students develop and strength basic skills, the State Farm grant will allow ShareFest to introduce a college preparatory element focusing on the benefits of a college education, as well as launch a life-skills curriculum centered on job readiness.

State Farm has a strong and ongoing commitment to ensure all children have access to an education that will allow them to achieve their greatest potential. The Company was presented with several certificates, including a Certificate of Congressional Commendation from Congresswoman Jan Harman, during the grant presentation, which was attended by several local government and community leaders.

For more information on ShareFest Community Development, visit sharefestinc.org.