Verizon Foundation Grant Supports Turning Point
Children of domestic violence survivors will benefit from a $10,000 donation made by the Verizon Foundation to Turning Point, a Mount Clemens-based organization that assists those who are affected by domestic violence, sexual assault and homelessness across Macomb County.
The grant will fund a summer camp for approximately 35 children, who are temporarily living in the organization's shelter with their mothers, by providing staff support and activities for daily recreation and field trips.
"Domestic violence affects a child's ability to feel safe, to trust adults and their community, to have peaceful interactions with others and to have a positive perception of themselves," said Suzanne Coats, CEO of Turning Point. "Summer camp offers children coping skills, information to increase their safety, and a way to connect with each other and their community."
Added John Grnaby, president of the Michigan-Indiana-Kentucky Region of Verizon Wireless: "Turning Point's summer camp program serves such an important need among families who have been affected by domestic violence. "It gives children -- the youngest victims of domestic violence -- the opportunity to just be kids and enjoy the summer, while experiencing new adventures in a safe and trusting environment."
The Verizon Foundation uses its technology, financial resources and partnerships to address critical social issues, with a focus on education and domestic violence prevention. In 2010, the foundation awarded nearly $67 million to nonprofit agencies in the U.S. and abroad. Through Verizon Volunteers, one of the nation's largest employee volunteer programs, Verizon employees and retirees have volunteered nearly 6 million hours of community service since 2000. For more information on the Verizon Foundation, visit www.verizonfoundation.org.
