On Tuesday, November 19, the United Way of Erie County took an important step forward in its mission to break down non-academic barriers to success for students at Grover Cleveland Elementary School. The organization launched a Corporate Sponsor Coalition aimed at empowering local youth, creating pathways for academic success, and ensuring that students have the resources they need to thrive both in school and at home.
The newly formed coalition includes a distinguished group of local businesses committed to improving educational outcomes for Erie’s next generation of leaders. The members of this coalition are:
- ECCA Payroll+
- Generational Wealth Management
- Schaffner, Knight, Minnaugh & Co., P.C.
- Vorex USA
These organizations are joining forces to provide vital support to Grover Cleveland Elementary, directly addressing the critical needs of students beyond the classroom. By focusing on issues such as basic needs, mental and behavioral health, and enrichment programs, the coalition aims to create a holistic environment that fosters both academic success and personal well-being.
John Bongiovanni, Lead Partner and Private Wealth Advisor at Generational Wealth Management, spoke at the event and emphasized the importance of community involvement. Quoting former Buffalo Bills Head Coach Marv Levy, Bongiovanni said, “Where else would you rather be than right here, right now?” His words captured the essence of the moment—an opportunity to make a lasting impact on Erie’s future.
The initiative is built around United Way’s Community School Model, a framework that has earned praise as a national best practice from the U.S. Department of Education for its effectiveness in improving educational outcomes by fostering strong community partnerships.
"We're not only providing another layer of support for our schools." says Brian Polito, Superintendent of Erie's Public Schools. "We're also sending a very powerful message that the community stands behind Erie's Public Schools."
By addressing a lack of basic needs, mental and behavioral health supports, enrichment programs, and more, this coalition can make a positive impact on individuals' lives.
