PUBLICOLOR Research shows that low-income students who do not have access to organized activities lose about two months of grade equivalency over these same summer breaks. This further deepens the achievement gap and puts underserved students at greater risk of dropping out of school. One program aimed at ameliorating this problem was introduced to me by Ruth Lande Shuman, the founder of Publicolor (publicolor.org). Ruth asked me to participate in an annual fundraiser—Paint, Splatter, and Roll—where artists design totes which are then painted by gala attendees and auctioned off to raise funds. I enjoyed painting alongside students, alumni of the program and inspired community philanthropists! I am particularly impressed by Publicolor’s Summer Design Studio, a seven-week enrichment program which provides at-risk teens literacy and math skills through its prism of product design program. With paid work experience available to each child, it revitalizes the neighborhood with fresh coats of paint. For 20 years, Publicolor has engaged disaffected youth through design projects in their schools. By changing their dreary, middle and high school facilities into appealing and vibrant educational facilities, student performance and attendance statistics have measurably increased. The tools: commercial paint, community-based volunteers and the principles of color, collaboration and design, combined with innovative programming! Publicolor
Publicolor Like CHF, Publicolor has been nationally recognized for its successes. Since inception in1996, some 227 NYC public schools and 214 community facilities have been transformed. Nearly 98 percent of the kids in these schools had on-time graduation rates. The Center for Benefit-Cost Studies of Education at Teacher’s College, Columbia University estimates this translates to $755,900 in average social benefits/high school graduate. Also, Publicolor brings an intense and long-term commitment to providing lasting change. Because one size does not fit all, various programs continue year-round including COLOR Club, Next Steps, and Summer Design Studio which middle and high school students participate in for a minimum of three days a week. Scholarships and support continue through college for Publicolor high school graduates. These are just two examples of NYC responses to helping our underserved children. But there are many more in need of your help. As you make “back to school” plans, consider adding one more objective – help another child reach his or her potential. Whether by supporting a bus or a brush, you can make a lasting difference. • Joan Hornig is a New York-based Jewelry Designer, Social Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist. She left a Wall Street career 15 years ago to create a jewelry line at Bergdorf Goodman, where 100 percent of her profit is donated to the charity of the purchaser’s choice. MEET OUR TEAM - VIEW VIDEO Go to www.Reveel.it and snap a photo
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