Panda Cares Foundation Enhances Support for Youth Education
As a meaningful extension of their five-year partnership, Panda Cares Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Panda Express, is thrilled to announce a new initiative. The Panda Cares Scholars Program, developed in collaboration with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, is set to award over $1.5 million in scholarships to assist the youth of America in furthering their education. This program is designed to provide $750,000 each year in annual scholarships to deserving members nationwide.
Recognizing Exceptional Youth
This initiative aims to recognize and reward high school juniors and seniors who demonstrate outstanding leadership, character, and commitment to their academic goals. Each year, the program will present $2,500 to 100 Club members and $5,000 to another 100 Club members, totaling a substantial investment in the future of American youth.
Words of Support
Jim Clark, President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of America, expressed gratitude for the support from Panda Cares, noting how instrumental it has been in encouraging young individuals to achieve academic excellence. "With the right support, 97% of Boys & Girls Club teens anticipate graduating from high school, in contrast to 87% nationally, showcasing the significant impact of collaborative partnerships like ours," he remarked.
Core Values and Commitment
Dr. Peggy Cherng, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Panda Express, stated, "The Panda Cares Scholars Program empowers our youth, providing them with the resources necessary to pursue their college aspirations, no matter their economic background. Giving back is one of our fundamental values at Panda, and we take pride in enriching our community by investing in the future of our younger generations." This emphasis on community and education is evident in their collaborative efforts.
Personal Stories of Impact
The scholarship program has already made a difference in the lives of students like Wayne and Mariah, who have benefitted greatly from their experiences at Boys & Girls Clubs. Recognized as Youths of the Year, both individuals attribute their success to the resources and mentorship provided by their local clubs. Mariah plans to use her scholarship for architecture studies at Texas Tech University, while Wayne will apply his funds towards living expenses during his biology major at Brown University. Their stories underscore the profound effect the scholarship can have in alleviating the financial strain of higher education.
Continued Commitment to Academic Success
The Panda Cares Foundation, celebrating its fifth anniversary of partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America, has been pivotal in supporting academic success through various initiatives. This partnership has led to the establishment of over 100 Panda Cares Centers of Hope, spaces dedicated to fostering educational aspirations and providing essential resources. Furthermore, initiatives like Project Learn focus on enriching academic support through engaging learning activities, homework assistance, and tutoring.
A Substantial Investment in Education
Since its inception in 2020, Panda Cares has committed an impressive $50 million to enhance educational programming and establish support systems throughout Boys & Girls Clubs nationwide. Their significant contributions not only empower youth but also help secure a brighter future for communities across the nation.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of America
For over 160 years, Boys & Girls Clubs of America has played a vital role in providing safe environments for children and teens to learn and grow. Offering mentorship, friendship, and active youth development programs, these clubs impact the lives of more than 4 million young people annually. They emphasize academic achievement, character development, and healthy living.
About Panda Express
Panda Express, the largest Asian dining chain in the United States, carries a rich heritage as a family-owned business since 1983. Co-Founders Andrew and Peggy Cherng have driven the company to be recognized as leaders in American Chinese cuisine. With over 2,500 locations, Panda Express continues to pioneer innovative dishes while enriching the lives of their patrons.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Panda Cares Scholars Program?
The Panda Cares Scholars Program offers scholarships to high school juniors and seniors who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership.
2. How much money does the program allocate for scholarships?
Each year, the program provides a total of $750,000 in scholarships, with varying amounts awarded to students.
3. Who benefits from the scholarships?
The scholarships primarily benefit members of Boys & Girls Clubs across the nation who show exceptional character and academic commitment.
4. How long has the partnership between Panda Cares and Boys & Girls Clubs been active?
The partnership is celebrating its fifth anniversary, having started in 2020 with a focus on educational support for youth.
5. What other programs does Panda Cares support?
Panda Cares also invests in Project Learn and operates Panda Cares Centers of Hope, enhancing educational resources for youth in need.
