F.U.T.U.R.E. Dials SBC Technology Grant

Front from left: Emir Hardy and Kathryn Rayford of F.U.T.U.R.E., State Rep. David Miller, Sam Balark of SBC Corporation

A new tone was dialed by F.U.T.U.R.E. Foundation Youth Services in receiving a technology grant from the SBC Corporation. The grant will provide for the funding of their new calling card, a website that will communicate the vision, work and progress of the foundation's programs and services to the community and funders alike.

Emir Hardy, Executive Director of F.U.T.U.R.E., along with Kathryn Rayford, Associate Director, was on hand at a brief ceremony that took place at the foundation's facility. Also on hand was House Representative David Miller (D-Calumet City), who played a pivotal role in securing the grant. Sam Balark, of SBC Corporation, presented the award to F.U.T.U.R.E.

Says Hardy, "We need a more effective way to communicate to all of our vested parties, our present and future funders, parents and the community. In order to maximize our reach, we believe the most responsible, cost- effective manner was a website. We are very grateful that the SBC corporation has partnered with us in this endeavor. As a communications company, they were a natural to understand our needs."

For more information, F.U.T.U.R.E. and SBC Corporation authored a press release, which can be viewed in its entirety from this link - Press Release: SBC Technology Grant (.pdf - 21kb)

F.U.T.U.R.E. Fact F.U.T.U.R.E. serves approximately 100 low income youths, providing after school activities to youth between the times of 3p.m. to 9p.m., longer than any agency dedicated to serving youth in Ford Heights.

Programs should hire skilled and qualified staff that are experienced in working with school-age children. Programs should also provide attractive compensation and work scheduling packages to retain quality staff.