TOPEKA, KS – SparkWheel, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering students and strengthening communities, is thrilled to announce that it has been awarded a $15,000 grant from the Lewis H. Humphreys Charitable Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee. This generous grant will support SparkWheel's impactful work in five public schools in Topeka, Kansas: Topeka High School, Topeka West High School, Highland Park High School, Ross Elementary School, and State Street Elementary School.
Established in 2004, the Lewis H. Humphreys Charitable Trust is committed to promoting quality educational, cultural, human services, and health care programming for underserved and disadvantaged populations in Central Kansas. The trust's support aligns seamlessly with SparkWheel's mission to provide essential services and resources to students and families facing challenges.
During the last school year, SparkWheel's impact in Topeka was substantial, providing support services to 4,631 students. Notably, students who received one-on-one support demonstrated remarkable progress, with 98% improving their academics, 87% enhancing their attendance, and an impressive 95% of seniors graduating.
One success story from Ross Elementary School exemplifies the tangible impact of SparkWheel's efforts. Recognizing the need to address declining literacy and academic performance, SparkWheel's Student Support Coordinator collaborated with school staff to organize "Bingo and Book Night." This event aimed to foster family engagement and boost literacy among students. Thanks to the support of community partner Advisors Excel, over 150 participants received free books and other prizes. Encouraged by the success, plans are in place for additional "Bingo and Book Nights" in the future.
"We are immensely grateful to the Lewis H. Humphreys Charitable Trust for their generous grant," said Noelle Haselhuhn, Communications Manager of SparkWheel. "This funding will enable us to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families in Topeka. The trust's commitment to underserved populations aligns perfectly with our mission, and together, we look forward to creating more success stories in the coming year."
SparkWheel remains dedicated to igniting student success, and funding partners like the Lewis H. Humphreys Charitable Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee, play a crucial role in ensuring that SparkWheel can provide vital support to students, their families, and communities.
About Lewis H. Humphreys Charitable Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee
The Lewis H. Humphreys Charitable Trust was established in 2004 to support and promote quality educational, cultural, human services and health care programming for underserved and disadvantaged populations. The Humphreys Trust supports organizations that serve the residents of Central Kansas.