Verizon supports schools

Now buying a new Verizon Connect phone will benefit Glendale schools. Each time a student, faculty or friend of the Glendale Unified School district buys or upgrades to a new phone with a one or two-year activation the Glendale Educational Foundation will earn 10% of the sale (sale is defined as the costs before rebates and sales tax, but after discounts.)

Recently La Cañada resident and owner of the Verizon store in La Crescenta Patty Parker said she wanted to do something to help the community. Parker is the owner of 20 Verizon stores throughout Southern California.

“I have been in this business for 20 years, during the inspection of wireless,” she said. “We want to get actively involved in organizations that give back to the community,” Parker said.

She said that her La Crescenta store is one of the busiest and thought that this would be a good way to return the support of local customers back to the community.

“We strive for customer service not just to send you out the door with a great phone but to give back to your children and your schools,” she said.

The generous donation is appreciated by the Glendale Educational Foundation, said Susan Hunt, foundation board member and works in the district.

“This will provide a boost in our fundraising,” Hunt said.

The foundation was brought back to life three years ago, after several years of hiatus. Each year board members chose a specific area to concentrate their efforts.

The first year was arts, the second was science and technology and this year is emphasizes health and fitness.

“This money will help schools with new fitness equipment like that for fitness center at Rosemont,” Hunt said. “The foundation doesn’t go to parents for support but to local corporations and businesses.”

Hunt added that community minded businesses like Parkers helps support local schools.

To participate, customers just need to tell the Verizon employee that they are a friend, teacher, staff or student of Glendale Unified School District.