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HOUSTON, Jun. 17 /BusinessWire/ -- Hess Corporation (NYSE:HES) today announced a $9 million financial commitment over the next three years as part of its Learning for Life Partnership to fund educational programs and support services for children in three economically disadvantaged communities in Houston that are part of Mayor Sylvester Turner's Complete Communities Initiative. Hess employees will also volunteer time and expertise to support these programs.

The Hess Learning for Life Partnership will benefit approximately 22 schools and more than 13,000 children from pre-K through elementary, middle, and high school in Houston's Third Ward, Magnolia Park-Manchester, and Second Ward Complete Communities neighborhoods. The partnership expands the scope and reach of Hess' LEAP (Learn, Engage, Advance, Persevere) educational program, a $7.4 million investment over the last eight years to support students in the Magnolia Park and Second Ward neighborhoods.

Hess Learning for Life grants are being made through the Greater Houston Community Foundation to various nonprofit organizations to address needs identified by Mayor Turner's Complete Communities initiative, helping ensure that all Houstonians have equal access to quality services and amenities.

"Our company has a proud history of social investment programs that make a positive and lasting impact on the communities where we operate," said John B. Hess, Chief Executive Officer. "In partnership with Mayor Turner's initiative, we are delighted to expand our commitment to provide children in the neighborhoods adjacent to Hess Tower in downtown Houston with the academic and social resources they need to reach their full potential."

"All children deserve an opportunity to pursue their dreams," said Greg Hill, Hess President, and Chief Operating Officer. "With this partnership, we are supporting the needs of underserved children at every level of their development."

"Philanthropic support to local nonprofits and volunteerism from corporations, such as Hess, keep Houston's workforce competitive and youth equipped with the tools they need to succeed. Local schools also need support and corporate stewardship to improves student achievement, reduce absenteeism, and develop strong school-community partnerships," stated Mayor Turner.

The Hess Learning for Life Partnership will fund STEM equipment and curricula, teacher training, computer equipment, mentorship programs, accreditation initiatives, career life guidance counseling, and other support. It also will provide full scholarships for nine high school seniors each year to pursue a college degree or vocational certification and support work-study programs at the University of Houston and Texas Southern University in the Third Ward.

Nonprofit organizations to receive funding include The Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation's My Home Library; Big Brothers Big Sisters' Beyond School Walls mentorship program; Genesys Works' high school internship program; Communities In Schools' on-campus student support; Children's Museum Houston's science workshop summer camp; Collaborative for Children's Center of Excellence's early childhood education programming; Comp-u-Dopt's computer education series and hardware distribution; Edgenuity's credit recovery program; C-STEM's Robotics Prototype toolkits and teacher training; and Alliance Financial Ministries' student workshops and after-school programs

Schools benefitting from the investment are Briscoe, Blackshear, Carrillo, DeZavala, Foster, Franklin, Gallegos, Hartsfield, KIPP Explore, Lockhart, Peck, Thompson, Tijerina, and Whidby elementary schools; Cullen, Edison, and Ryan (Baylor College of Medicine) middle schools; Austin, Energy Institute and Yates high schools; Texas Southern University and the University of Houston.
By Kadein Duncan February 12, 2025
In today’s digital world, having access to a computer is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity! From completing school assignments to applying for jobs, technology plays a vital role in everyday life. Unfortunately, not every household has access to a working computer. That’s where Compudopt comes in, bringing hope and opportunity to families who need it most. With a free c omputer giveaway so you can receive your computer at no cost! Imagine your child being able to finish homework without struggling to find a device. Picture them confidently participating in online classes, exploring new knowledge, and reaching their full potential. Compudopt is excited to announce its Digital Life Fair Computer Giveaway for families in Northwest Tennessee ! If you or someone you know is without a working computer at home and has a child in K - 12 education, this is an opportunity to receive a free computer and empower your or another child's future! Who Qualifies? To be eligible for a free computer, applicants must meet the following criteria: You do not currently own a working computer at home. You have a child in K-12 education who deserves the chance to thrive. You live in one of the following counties: Gibson Obion Lake Henry Dyer Weakley Carroll Crockett How to Register The process is simple and easy! Interested families should register online for a chance to be selected. Register Here: https://www.compudopt.org/tennessee Once registered, names will be randomly selected based on available inventory before distribution dates. If you are selected, you will receive a notification via email and/or text message with instructions to complete the RSVP process and pick up your computer at a designated distribution site. Why This Matters Having a computer at home can open doors to countless opportunities, including: Improved educational outcomes for students who now have the tools to succeed. Access to online learning resources that fuel curiosity and lifelong learning. Better job and career opportunities for parents looking to build a stronger future for their families. Enhanced digital literacy for the whole family, creating possibilities for growth and financial stability. For many families, this is more than just a giveaway—it’s a life-changing opportunity. It’s the chance for a child to dream bigger, for a parent to find better work, and for a family to connect with a world of information and possibilities. Don’t Miss Out— Register Toda y ! If you or someone you know meets the eligibility requirements, don’t wait! Register today for a chance to be selected. Every computer given away is another step towards closing the digital divide and ensuring a brighter tomorrow for families in need. For more details and to sign up, visit: Compudopt Tennessee Giveaway .
By Kadein Duncan December 18, 2024
Personal donors and businesses can now donate used devices at all Micro Center locations to support underserved communities HOUSTON ( Dec. 18, 2024 ) – Compudopt , a national nonprofit dedicated to providing free technology access and education to under-resourced youth and their communities, has joined forces with leading electronics retailer Micro Center to make device recycling easier and promote digital equity. All 28 Micro Center locations across the country will now accept donations of used devices, including laptops, desktops, tablets, and smartphones. Compudopt will securely wipe, refurbish, and equip these devices with essential digital resources before distributing them at no cost to families and individuals in need across 57+ cities. “ Compudopt and Micro Center are addressing several critical challenges together,” said Megan Steckly , CEO of Compudopt . “We’re making it easy for consumers and businesses to donate unwanted devices, diverting e-waste from landfills, and creating opportunities for the 21% of American households who lack access to in-home computers. This access unlocks education, employment, economic mobility, and so much more.” Many businesses retire their devices after just three years , contributing to 20 million pounds of e-waste g enerated annually. This partnership offers a sustainable and impactful way to manage device recycling while supporting digital inclusion. “Micro Center is proud to support Compudopt’s mission of connectivity and digital equity through this meaningful partnership,” said Brad Kramer, CFO, and Co-COO of Micro Center. “We understand how vital technology is as a gateway to opportunity, and we are honored to help make the digital world more accessible.” Join Us in Making a Difference Compudopt and Micro Center are committed to bridging the digital divide and protecting the environment. Individuals and corporate teams can learn more about how to donate their used devices at the links below: Donate Personal Devices Donate Corporate Devices About Compudopt Compudopt is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to providing technology access and education to under-resourced youth and their communities. Since its founding in 2007, Compudopt has empowered hundreds of thousands of individuals across 57+ cities and 24+ states. Click here for Compudopt’s media kit . About Micro Center Founded in 1979, Micro Center operates 28 stores nationwide, offering an extensive range of computers, electronics, and related products. Known for outstanding customer service and expertise, Micro Center is committed to innovation, community support, and inclusivity. Visit microcenter.com for more. Media Contacts Teddi Cliett Three Box on behalf of Compudopt P: (214) 635-3025 E: tcliett@threebox.com Meg Adrion Micro Center Director of Digital Marketing E: madrion@microcenter.com
By Kadein Duncan December 18, 2024
HOUSTON (Dec. 16, 2024) – Compudopt , a national nonprofit providing technology access and education at no cost to under-resourced youth and their communities, and Mission Telecom , a nonprofit telecommunications organization, have entered a three-year partnership to bridge the digital divide by providing 30K families nationwide with free digital devices and at least one year of free high-speed internet. Compudopt and Mission Telecom began collaborating in Nov. 2024 and have since distributed over 5,148 devices to under-resourced communities across the country. The two organizations officially kicked off the three-year partnership at a device distribution event in Houston earlier this month, where 102 local families received a free device and high-speed internet. High-resolution photos, video and b-roll from the event are available for view and download here . “At a time when technology impacts nearly every aspect of society, device access and connectivity are the first steps toward closing the gap,” said Compudopt CEO Megan Steckly. “By equipping a family with basic connectivity resources, we’re opening the door to economic mobility and social opportunity that changes lives. We’re proud to live out this mission alongside like-minded partners like Mission Telecom.” US Census data reports that as of 2021, up to 21% of American households lack an in-home computer, which creates roadblocks and challenges to navigating today’s digital landscape, from pursuing education to managing a bank account to sourcing health care, meaningful employment and more. Through the partnership, communities will experience the benefits of connectivity, as well as access to Compudopt’s multi-language IT support and a two-year device warranty to ensure they’re supported through their new digital journey. “Mission Telecom believes in the transformative power of affordable connectivity to drive social change, which only happens when communities are provided with equitable resources like device access,” said Mission Telecom Executive Director Rhea Yaw Ching. “Together, Compudopt and Mission Telecom are creating transformative, systemic change that will shift the current landscape for the better.” Families and individuals interested in receiving a free device and/or internet can learn more at www.compudopt.org/. About Compudopt Compudopt is a national nonprofit organization with a mission to provide technology access and education to under-resourced youth and their communities. Founded in 2007, Compudopt has provided device access, training and support to hundreds of thousands of individuals across the country. Compudopt operates in 57+ cities and 24+ states across the US. Click here to access Compudopt’s digital media kit. About Mission Telecom Mission Telecom is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit telecom providing affordable broadband and investing in a movement of systemic change. With a legacy spanning over 40 years, Mission Telecom reinvests surpluses from its telecommunications spectrum resources into driving social change. Our services enable nonprofits, educational institutions, and libraries to thrive in an interconnected world. We are on a mission to deliver innovative solutions that break barriers and champion equitable connectivity for everyone. To learn more, visit missiontelecom.org . Media Contacts Teddi Cliett Three Box on behalf of Compudopt P: (214) 635-3025 E: tcliett@threebox.com Elizabeth Rivera Mission Telecom, Director of Marketing and Communications P: (347) 461-7919 E: elizabeth.rivera@missiontelecom.org Dana Knox-Gower Mission Telecom, Marketing and Communications Manager P: (203) 558-0091 E: dana.knox-gower@missiontelecom.org
By Kadein Duncan October 25, 2024
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