Last Friday , the uShip team started what I know will be a long and
productive relationship with our new community partner, Communities In Schools. Everyone at uShip believes
that companies, large and small, should have a positive impact on the
communities they work in.
It was with this mission that we contacted our good friends at the Entrepreneurs Foundation of Central Texas.
We wanted to find an organization we could partner with throughout the year, so
that we could have more than just a “one-time” influence.
Helping Harris Elementary
Enter Communities In Schools and our burgeoning partnership with Harris Elementary
School, located in East Austin. Harris is a
school with great needs, both in terms of infrastructure and finding bright
enthusiast individuals will to mentor and tutor their students.
To help Harris, uShip has planned quarterly team projects, both at the
school and off-site with the kids. Between team projects, we have created opportunities
for our team of bright young people to engage the students at many other levels,
such as tutoring. The hope is that over time, we will get to see the school and
its students continue to grow in a positive way.
Our partnership begins…
Our first project at Harris was a bit of hard labor. Harris Elementary, and
really—the Austin
Independent School
District—only have enough money for basic
expenses, especially in the more economically depressed areas of town. Because
of this, schools don’t have money to spend on beautification projects.
To help create a positive atmosphere for Harris students to learn in, our
amazing team spent the day tilling the fields and creating a wonderful garden
area for the children to enjoy. Next to the garden is a set of tables where
tutors and mentors meet with students every day, so the beauty is sure to be
appreciated!
The best part was that the kids got involved and took ownership of the
project. They couldn’t be more excited, and were happy to shovel, rake, and plant
alongside our team.
A few mentions of thanks
I also want to acknowledge the people and organizations that made this
project possible.
Amanda Chiampi, Program Manager,
Entrepreneurs Foundation of Central Texas:
Amanda is my go-to person for all of uShip’s community involvement. Alongside
Executive Director Eugene Sepulveda, Amanda does an amazing job of engaging
start-up companies in the Austin
area. Thanks for everything you do, Amanda!
Jeremy Walther, Bio-Gardner:
I can’t thank Jeremy and his team enough for the planning, support, and
supplies they provided us for this project. While the uShip team is really good
at building consumer websites, we need a little help when it comes to gardening!
If you live in the Austin
area, I strongly advise you to contact Jeremy, as he is as gracious as he is
talented– thanks, Jeremy!
Allison Behr, Communities In Schools:
Allison heads up the CIS program at Harris Elementary and does an
exceptional job with these amazing kids. Allison was our main point of contact
and helped us get everything organized and ready to go. She continues to
champion our involvement, and we look forward to working with her over the next
year – thanks, Allison… and sorry about your wheelbarrow!
The kids at Harris Elementary:
What can I say? You kept us motivated throughout the day; it was impossible
to get tired with you there to help us. You remind us why projects like this
are so important. Thanks!
