PNC FoundationWhy Smart Investments In Public Schools Are Critical to Pennsylvania’s Economic Future
Eva Tansky Blum
October 3, 2014
The New York Times
A Simple Equation:
More Education =
More Income
By Eduardo Porter
Source: Organization for
Economic Cooperation &
Development
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PNC Foundation giving is focused in two primary areas:– Economic Development
Support for arts and cultural organizations
– Education, with an emphasis on early education
The corporate mission is implemented at the local level:– Dollars allocated to each market– Regional Presidents chair market-based distribution committee
Focused Philanthropy – The Mission
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Focus the power of the company around one cause
Develop a meaningful, cutting-edge and measurable program
Involve the entire company in some capacity
Enhance brand preference and appeal
Be recognized by stakeholders as a community leader
Focused Philanthropy – The Vision
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Survey of employees revealed children and education as desired focus
A child’s education between years 0-5 determines a lifetime learning trajectory
Disadvantaged children start kindergarten with significantly lower cognitive skills than their more advantaged peers
Why Early Childhood Education
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Early Childhood Education
Important Cognitive Skills– Self-Control– Openness– Ability To Engage With Others
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James Heckman, Economist
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James Heckman, Economist
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AwarenessVolunteerism GrantsAdvocacy
PNC Leadership PNC Dollars PNC Assets
Issue
Elements
Early Childhood Education
Resources
The Program
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$78 million in math, arts, science, and financial education grants
450,000 volunteerhours by PNC employees
626,000 educational and personal supplies donated
Difference-maker for Children
“In 14 years, I’ve never seen our Head Start program so excited about science.”“We are extremely thankful for the volunteers . . .
The children truly benefit from the individual help and attention.” – Head Start Teachers
Personal Impact
3 million Ready for School kits distributed
2 million children benefited from PNC
grants and programs
135,000 teachers received professional development
Program Impact - Children
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James Heckman, Economist
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Conclusion
In Pennsylvania we should focus on:
- An appropriate funding stream
- A system of quality education that goes from Pre-K through Grade 12
It is essential for our economy
It is essential for our business community
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