Kelvin Lynch, Wal-Mart regional general manager, announces the $700,000 donation to KU-CRL.
"We are honored to make this donation to the University of Kansas to support Boys & Girls
Clubs of America's free, after-school reading and tutoring programs in more than 4,000
communities across America," said Lynch. "This donation will enhance an already powerful
program that enriches the lives and learning experience of young people across the country."
Kelvin Lynch, Don Deshler, and Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius
Don Deshler and Governor Kathleen Sebelius accept a ceremonial $700,000 check from Kelvin Lynch.
"This is a significant donation to be made in the state of Kansas.
The 'Power Hour' program ensures that children in Kansas and around the country
are better prepared for their futures," said Governor Kathleen Sebelius.
"On behalf of Kansas, I want to say thank you to Wal-Mart for this considerable donation."
Jenny Lewis, Boys & Girls Clubs regional director of development, spoke about the tremendous
need to develop programs to address epidemic high school dropout rates and low levels of
literacy. The Wal-Mart donation will enable BGCA and KU-CRL to join in the battle against illiteracy.
Darrell Stuckey, KU junior from Kansas City, Kan., who is majoring in communications studies,
signs autographs for members of the Lawrence Boys & Girls Club. Darrell, starting free safety
on KU's Orange Bowl championship football team, volunteers with BGCA and spoke to the media
about the importance of role models and after-school programs.
Don Deshler answers questions from reporters after the press conference.
Carol Deshler with grandson, Carson Connard, watch as Don accepts the $700,000 donation. Carson also met
the governor and asked KU football player Darrell Stuckey to
autograph a photo of the Jayhawk's Orange Bowl championship team.
The announcement of Wal-Mart's donation attracted attention of news media from across Northeast Kansas.
LAWRENCE JOURNAL WORLD
$700,000 donation to beef up 'Power Hour'
TOPEKA CAPITAL-JOURNAL
KU receives $700,000 from Wal-Mart Foundation
KANSAS CITY STAR
Grant to KU will aid Boys and Girls Clubs
KTKA 49 News (Kansas City)
Walmart gives big to help kids read, learn, succeed
Channel 6News (Lawrence)
Wal-Mart donates $700,000 to KU, Boys & Girls Club
