Yesterday, Amazon graciously invited PeerForward to join the ribbon cutting ceremony for a new fulfillment center in Delta Township, a municipality in Michigan, alongside several city, regional, and state leaders. Our Managing Director of Development, Amanda Hale, and Manager of Corporate and Strategic Partnerships, Cornelius Williams, proudly represented our organization at this event. They were joined by the Peer Leaders, Advisor, and Principal from Everett High School in Lansing, Michigan.
Ian Conyers, Head of Community Affairs at Amazon, highlighted that education is one of Amazon’s key pillars of community engagement and how important it is in creating paths for the next generation. He emphasized the need for guidance: “You’re 30-40% more likely to go to college when you have someone who helps you through the process. Filling out the applications – that can be daunting – especially if someone in your home doesn’t have that same experience.” He then presented PeerForward with a check for $10,000 in recognition of our impactful work in providing access to and guidance about college and careers – via our amazing Peer Leaders!
Amanda Hale noted, “With this sponsorship, it’s clear that Amazon is committed to being a strong community partner and giving back where they work and live. We are excited about collaborating with them and opening pathways to success for even more students!”
After the ceremony, the Peer Leaders got to take a tour of the facility and learn all about the career opportunities and world-class benefits that Amazon offers. They even got to meet Sparty, the Michigan State mascot!
When asked about his experience at the event, Cornelius Williams said, “Seeing the excitement in the eyes and body language of six Peer Leaders who were so eager to learn about the inside workings of Amazon made me appreciate this mission on a different level. Students value exposure to various career pathways and yesterday a fire was lit, and new possibilities were awakened within the Peer Leaders. Not only did they learn about how Amazon could benefit them financially but also educationally with their robust benefit package that includes tuition support! Our Peer Leaders networked with state politicians, commerce executives, Amazonians, and community leaders and are on a mission to change their school’s culture.”
Thank you again to Amazon for providing our Peer Leaders from Everett High School with this opportunity and for supporting them with a generous sponsorship!
