Enterprise Holdings Foundation Awards More Than $12,000 to Square One

SPRINGFIELD — The Enterprise Holdings Foundation donated $12,143 to Square One in support of its Campaign for Healthy Kids.

The contribution is a piece of the Enterprise Holdings ROAD Forward commitment to allocate $35 million to more than 70 global Enterprise operating teams to drive local impact as part of its broader commitment to donate $55 million over five years to organizations that advance social and racial equity in the communities where it operates. The local grants program empowers employees to take the lead on identifying organizations that are best equipped to address social and racial equity gaps in their own communities across three areas: early-childhood development, youth health and wellness, and career and college preparation.

“We are proud to support Square One in its commitment to providing opportunities for children and families in Greater Springfield,” said Shawn Fleming, Group Human Resources manager. “Advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion is a company-wide priority for Enterprise Holdings, and we’re committed to strengthening our community with the help of outstanding organizations like Square One.”

This summer, Enterprise Holdings awarded its inaugural local ROAD Forward grants to nearly 700 nonprofits addressing social and racial equity gaps facing youth and families in local communities. Combined, the grants total more than $7 million.

“We were beyond excited to learn that Enterprise selected Square One to receive this very generous gift,” said Kristine Allard, vice president of Development & Communication for Square One. “Our success in serving the children and families in our region is dependent upon the generosity of business and individuals who recognize the need to support our important work. We are so grateful to the Enterprise Holdings Foundation for this amazing gift.”

The Campaign for Healthy Kids is a multi-year fund-development initiative focused on Square One’s commitment to providing healthy meals, physical fitness, social-emotional well-being, and a healthy learning environment. All funds raised will directly support the children and families who rely on Square One to help meet their early-learning and family-support service needs. The campaign includes numerous opportunities for businesses and individuals to become involved as donors and partners.

Square One currently provides early learning services to more than 500 infants, toddlers, and school-age children each day, and family-support services to 1,500 families each year, as they work to overcome the significant challenges in their lives. To make a donation, visit www.startatsquareone.org, or e-mail Allard at kallard@startatsquareone.org.