ALL HANDS ON DECK FOR POTTSTOWN SCHOOLS

The Pottstown School District and community taxpayers benefitted from the teamwork which was the result of a partnership of volunteers from the Vanguard Investment Corporation, United Way, and the Pottstown School District.  Vanguard employees (referred to as crew members) along with family members and representatives of the Pottstown School District participated in the annual “Day of Caring” sponsored by United Way of Southeast Pennsylvania.  Both young and old gave up the pleasure of sleeping in late on a Saturday morning for the satisfaction that comes from working side-by-side with others for a worthy cause.  This year’s projects included the painting of several of the middle school stairwells and repainting of the stadium press box. 

Vanguard Project Leader and Pottstown High School graduate Lisa Baglivio said, “Vanguard crew members believe that we have a responsibility to give back to our community.  It is personally rewarding to me to be able to come back home and show my gratitude for the quality educational opportunities I received by lending a hand to make sure that our schools have first rate facilities.”

Brian Donadio of Vanguard said, “The Vanguard Corporation’s philosophy includes a strong component of community involvement and commitment.  Our crew members are dedicated to making a positive difference in the community.  I am particularly proud of the fact that many of our crew members bring their younger children along so that the seeds of community service are sown early.”

 The day’s project goals were accomplished quickly because, as always, the Vanguard crew comes with enthusiasm, organization, and focus.  Working side-by-side with Vanguard volunteers were Middle School Principal Gail Cooper and Supervisor of Buildings and Grounds Bob Kripplebauer.  Cooper said, “It is exciting to see so many people willing to give of their personal time to make a difference in our community.”  Mr. Kripplebauer, who was responsible for the onsite organization of materials and work crews, said, “This is an exciting experience for me.  Being new to the Pottstown community, I am quickly learning that there is a great deal of support for our educational mission.”

Also assisting from the district representing the Athletic Department was Matt Blute.  Nick Yonas from the Buildings and Grounds crew was instrumental in preparing all of the supplies needed for the day’s activities.

John Armato, Director of Community Relations, who took part in the day’s events said, “Partnerships, such as these, help to save valuable taxpayer dollars while completing much needed school district projects.  The adults and young people today served as role models and have done their part to ensure that our community moves forward in a positive fashion.  Today’s events are just another reason for us to say, Proud to be from Pottstown.”