Three local organizations - Bunn-O-Matic, First Presbyterian Church, and First Christian Church - were awarded for their long-standing partnerships with Jefferson Middle School, Matheny-Withrow Elementary, and Fairview Elementary, respectively. The partnerships provided various supports to the schools like funding for books and activities, volunteer tutoring and library assistance, and donations of supplies and gifts. The awards ceremony recognized the organizations' contributions in helping achieve the community's vision of high-achieving students through business and education relationships.

1. Transforming the economy of Sangamon County.
Contact: Nicole Selinger
217-525-1173 x209
nselinger@gscc.org
Partners in Excellence/CoL Community Roundtable &
Reception
SPRINGFIELD, IL – (April 20, 2012) –Last night during the Business Education Partnership (BEP)
event ‘Partners in Excellence Awards’ reception at the Illinois Education Association awarded 3 local
organizations and schools in their effort to create a long-standing relationship with educational
institutions. Those that were recipients of awards include, Jefferson Middle School and Bunn-O-
Matic, Matheny-Withrow Elementary and First Presbyterian Church, and Fairview Elementary and
First Christian Church.
For three consecutive years, Bunn-O-Matic employees have supported Jefferson Middle School in
numerous ways. Purchasing books, providing funds for projects/activities, and most recently, funding
the books that were given to the winners of the African American Heritage Bowl. In 2012, several
employees participated in the ‘‘Real Men Read’’ programs have dedicated hours of service. In the
spring of each year, Jefferson students are invited to Bunn-O-Matic to tour the facility, learn about
the history of the company, and enjoy an executive lunch. The staff and students at Jefferson are
very grateful for the strong partnership with the employees at Bunn.
First Presbyterian Church has maintained an incredible three-year relationship with the students and
staff at Matheny-Withrow Elementary. Church volunteers partook in the “Reading Around the World”
program, assisted with the “Read 5” summer reading program, and provided tutors for the students.
Donations of gently used books, weekly volunteer hours in the library, and generous monetary
donations that allowed the school to purchase and provide dinner and games for Family Game Night
were also contributed by volunteers. The involvement of First Presbyterian Church benefited the
children and their families. This partnership allows Matheny-Withrow the resources to meet many of
the needs of our students—including academic support, social skills and basic needs.
First Christian Church has been a tremendous support to Fairview Elementary School, enriching the
education and the lives of students for the past three years. Donated materials such as school
supplies, gloves, and food for Thanksgiving baskets, Christmas gifts, homemade chair pockets,
Valentines cards and gifts, and gifts for staff members of Teacher Appreciation Week were all
generous contributions from the First Christian Church. Not only were the members of the church
generous with donations; they also devoted time and service to the library every week. Also, a
member of the congregation participates in monthly family and community engagement team
meetings. Additionally, First Christian provides assistance to the school by volunteering at the Fall
Festival, Santa’s Workshop, and Book Fair each and every year. These are just a few of the
countless things that First Christian Church has done to enhance the achievement of students at
Fairview.
Outstanding devotion and work deserves to be awarded, especially when that good work benefits
the children in our community. That’s why, in 2011, the BEP created the Partners in Excellence
The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce
1011 South Second Street | Springfield, IL 62704 | Ph: 217.525.1173 | Fax: 217.525.8768 | www.gscc.org

2. Transforming the economy of Sangamon County.
award. We have a vision for our community that includes high achieving students, productive
workers, and successful citizens. The help was needed to bring this vision to reality, and we
appreciate the partnership in the long-term success of our community. These organizations and
schools have exceeded our expectations and we are truly grateful for the donations and
contributions from all organizations in effort to support business and education relationships in
Sangamon County.
The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce is focused on enhancing the business climate and
promoting and stimulating economic development in Sangamon County for the benefit of its members
and the community. The Quantum Growth Partnership (Q5) is an initiative by The Chamber, local
governments, labor and business leaders, to build wealth, unity and prosperity in Sangamon County. For
more information about The Chamber and Q5, visit www.gscc.org.
The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce
1011 South Second Street | Springfield, IL 62704 | Ph: 217.525.1173 | Fax: 217.525.8768 | www.gscc.org