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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