The Qwest Foundation today announced a $25,000 grant to Goodwill Industries of Denver's youth services program. The program helps ensure at-risk students graduate from high school with the life skills necessary to become self-sufficient adults."We are very honored to accept this grant in support of our youth services program," said Tim Welker, president and CEO Goodwill Industries of Denver. "The abundance of at-risk youth has only increased over the years, and backing from community leaders like Qwest makes our efforts possible."
Goodwill's youth services program reinforces academic achievement and helps students make relevant connections between their education and future employment opportunities. The program features school-based instruction on life skills and job preparedness; summer and year-long college preparation; team, peer, one-on-one and homeless youth mentoring; career exploration job fairs; and shadowing and paid internships.
"Dropping out of high school has negative implications for kids, our community and Colorado's economy," said Chuck Ward, Qwest president for Colorado. "Qwest is proud to support a program that addresses this critical issue among our state's youth, and we applaud Goodwill's efforts."
Students in Goodwill's programs graduate from high school with a realistic plan and the skills necessary to enter college or the workforce. Helping students stay in school and prepare for the future is the primary objective of Goodwill's youth services program.
About the Qwest Foundation
The Qwest Foundation's core principle is that investing in people and communities provides lasting value for the future. The Qwest Foundation awards grants to community-based programs that generate high-impact and measurable results, focusing on pre-K through grade 12 education.
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Contacts:Qwest Media Contact:
Jennifer Barton
303-965-0561
Jennifer.barton@qwest.com