KeyBank Foundation donates $75,000 to Boys & Girls Club of Stamford to launch Key to Success program for middle schoolers

KeyBank Foundation has pledged a three-year grant of $75,000 ($25,000 per year) to Boys & Girls Club Of Stamford (BGCS) to support a new program called Key to Success.  The program provides targeted educational enrichment programming to a cohort of sixth graders in the 2017-2018 academic year, and tracks performance over the next three years as they complete middle school. Expected program outcomes include improved academic performance, reduced school absenteeism, and avoidance of summer learning loss typically experienced during school vacation months.  The program includes students from Cloonan Middle School and Rippowam Middle School. 

“The Boys and Girls Club of Stamford greatly appreciates KeyBank Foundation’s commitment to the youth of Stamford,” said BGCS Executive Director Michael Cotela. “This three year grant will allow us to track the progress of our members and provide learning programs that support Stamford School System’s educational initiatives.”

Cohort members will participate in educational enrichment programming that includes Power Hour homework, STEM, Write Brain, Sparks History, Chess, and Stride Academy.  Members will also select from a number of character and leadership development programs such Torch Club, SMART Moves, Passport to Manhood, Live Girl, and Positive Actions.  School attendance, quarterly report cards, and club/summer camp involvement will be tracked over the three year grant period with the expectation that students will demonstrate improved academic performance over benchmarked data, will be better prepared for success in high school, and will improve their social and emotional skills.      

“One of Key’s philanthropic funding priorities is education – with particular focus on supporting programs that drive student academic performance and successful graduation rates in disadvantaged populations,” said Bruce Rogers, regional director for Key Insurance & Benefits Services and long-time BGCS board member. “BGCS’ programming is fully aligned with the Stamford public schools, and making a measurable difference in the lives of many Stamford schoolchildren. We are proud to support their efforts.”   

Photo Caption: KeyBank representatives present grant check in the amount of $75,000 to Boys & Girls Club of Stamford.  Pictured from left are Bruce Rogers, regional director, Key Insurance & Benefits Services and BGCS board member, Karen Crane, senior communications manager, KeyBank; LaKisha Jordan, corporate responsibility officer, KeyBank; and Michael Cotela, executive director, Boys & Girls Club of Stamford.