Brotherhood Crusade Uses $35,000 Verizon Grant to Improve Science, Math Skills of More South Los Angeles Students

More South Los Angeles middle and high school students now have the opportunity to improve their academic performance in math and science, thanks to a partnership between the Brotherhood Crusade and Verizon.

The Brotherhood Crusade's Integrated Technology Program will enroll an additional 200 students, aged nine to 15, with support of a $35,000 grant from the Verizon Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Verizon. Participants will receive eight hours of instruction a week in math and science over a 48-week curriculum. Course topics include science, technology, engineering, math, educational enrichment and family literacy services. The grant brings Verizon's total support for the program to $60,000.

"We are eternally grateful that Verizon has recognized the quality and impact of our work and elected to partner with us in effectuating the changes necessary to make a difference in our community," said Charisse Bremond Weaver, Brotherhood Crusade's president and CEO.  "The combination of Verizon's professional assistance, resources and financial support will enable children and youth from environments where gang influence is stronger than academic success to benefit from this highly effective program. Verizon's support provides hope, creates meaningful change, and significantly improves quality of life."

The hands-on, computer-aided instruction will complement the students' regular school day curriculum and encourage their pursuit of post-secondary degrees in science, technology, engineering and math.

"Verizon is pleased to partner with the Brotherhood Crusade to inspire and challenge youth to reach their full potential," said Elva Lima, Verizon vice president, strategic programs. "Through this partnership, the Brotherhood Crusade has been able to prepare our youth to better compete in a 21st century economy."

The Verizon Foundation supports the advancement of literacy and K-12 education through its free educational Web site, Thinkfinity.org, and fosters awareness and prevention of domestic violence.  In 2008, the Verizon Foundation awarded more than $68 million in grants to nonprofit agencies in the U.S. and abroad.  It also matched the charitable donations of Verizon employees and retirees, resulting in an additional $26 million in combined contributions to nonprofits.  Through Verizon Volunteers, one of the nation's largest employee volunteer programs, Verizon employees and retirees have volunteered more than 3 million hours of community service since 2000. For more information on the foundation, visit www.verizonfoundation.org.

About Brotherhood Crusade
Since 1968, the Brotherhood Crusade has had a legacy of providing a range of community based services to the City of Los Angeles and the surrounding areas.  From scholarships for the economically disadvantaged, to providing direct grants to other non-profit agencies, the benefits to the community have been immeasurable. We are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for families & youth throughout our communities where the need is greatest. We strive to continue providing financial and supportive services to programs that address health, education, social welfare, and issues facing economic growth and development in under served areas.

About Verizon
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers.  Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving more than 87 million customers nationwide.  Verizon's Wireline operations provide converged communications, information and entertainment services over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network.  Wireline also includes Verizon Business, which delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world.  A Dow 30 company, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 235,000 and last year generated consolidated operating revenues of more than $97 billion.  For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

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