An idea years in the making is finally coming to fruition. In 2008, GTH Partner Sal Mungia, had an idea to team up with area businesses to sponsor local elementary classes. Time and resources were limited, however, and sadly the project never progressed out of the preliminary stages. Nine years later, GTH is proud to help Sal’s vision come true.
Over the summer, Sal worked with the principal of Sheridan Elementary to develop a pilot program aimed at enriching the lives of local children. After working with the GTH diversity committee and receiving approval from the firm’s Board, the program is now underway. For the 2017-2018 school year, GTH attorneys and staff will volunteer their time at Sheridan Elementary with the goal of improving students’ reading, writing, and math skills.
To kick off GTH’s newest community endeavor, Sheridan Elementary first-graders were invited to our Tacoma office to meet GTH attorneys and staff and take a tour of the office. Tacoma’s Mayor, Marilyn Strickland also attended the kick-off celebration. While speaking to the first-grade class, Mayor Strickland reminded the students, “You’re here today because a lot of people in this city really love you. They want you to imagine what your life could be when you grow up.”
GTH attorneys and staff began volunteering the week of October 30, 2017. Attorneys and staff have reported their first visit was a remarkable experience. Receptionist, Mary Rodriguez, stated her visit was a “priceless and a rewarding experience.”
Throughout the school year, GTH will seek new ways to engage these bright and creative children. This month Sheridan first graders will enter in a holiday card design competition. After the attorneys and staff vote on their favorite design, GTH will have the privilege of using one student’s artwork on this year’s firm holiday card.
GTH’s long-term vision is to continue to sponsor this class each year through the 5th grade. Future classes will not feel left in the dark as GTH hopes to encourage other local businesses to sponsor incoming first-grade classes.
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