Remember that smell when you opened a fresh, new box of crayons? The satisfaction of using a pristine pink eraser or choosing your favorite color of construction paper for an art project? Or the anticipation of opening the cover of a brand-new book?

Vanguard crew are helping the next generation create their own favorite childhood experiences by supporting school readiness efforts in their communities. The Jump Start the School Year giving event is providing needed supplies for under-resourced early learning centers in Arizona and North Carolina. The purchases — crayons, erasers, construction paper, books, and more — will support children during the critical early years of development, helping them to grow, thrive, and learn.

In Arizona, the drive supports Child Crisis Arizona, which provides support for some of Arizona’s most vulnerable children, youth, and families.

The North Carolina drive supports Charlotte Bilingual Preschool, which leverages the long-term advantages of bilingualism to prepare Spanish-speaking children for success in school and life.

“I was blown away when I learned that 57% of students in Mecklenburg County are economically disadvantaged heading into yet another pandemic-impacted academic year. This can mean limited access to school supplies and school readiness support. Charlotte Bilingual Preschool helps close that gap by preparing Spanish-speaking preschoolers for long term academic success. As a bilingual student myself, it’s an effort that I am excited to see Vanguard crew contribute towards!”
– Heba A., Senior Manager

“I’m proud to participate in Charlotte’s new giving event supporting local students at a school which works to leverage the long-term advantages of bilingualism to prepare Spanish-speaking children for success in school and life. I purchased a board book set that brings the alphabet to life throughout the journey from A to Z. I also bought a book which showcases women who changed the world. It’s the perfect goodnight book to inspire big dreams.”
– Amanda S., Project Manager

“I am excited to participate in Arizona’s virtual Back to School Drive supporting a local agency. Through this drive, I was able to learn more about their work in providing children and youth in Arizona with a safe environment through prevention, intervention, and education programs. Further, I purchased art supplies, games, and a variety of books for children of all age groups. I am glad Vanguard chose to support this agency and moreover, am happy I could help give a child a jumpstart on school!”
– Bethany B., Retail Money Movement Manager

The Jump Start the School Year giving event is part of Vanguard’s signature charitable initiative, the Vanguard Strong Start for Kids Program™. The program provides funding, volunteer time and talent, as well as other nonfinancial assets to give children growing up in poverty in Greater Philadelphia, Charlotte, Phoenix, and London the opportunity to grow, thrive, and learn, with a focus on improving school readiness. The program is supported by generous crew contributions during our annual giving campaign and through the corresponding corporate match, along with additional corporate dollars.