KBE Building Corporation (KBE) (www.kbebuilding.com) has donated $1,000 to the Capitol Region Education Council (CREC) Foundation’s Musical Instruments Fund.
CREC was created in 1966 to develop cost-effective and high-quality educational programs for children and adults in the Capitol Region of Connecticut, and currently operates 19 elementary and secondary magnet schools and academies. The CREC Foundation, a non-profit organization established in 2005, provides financial support for numerous educational programs and services offered through the CREC schools.
The CREC’s Musical Instruments Fund was developed to help children in elementary and middle schools discover their musical talents. Accepting gently-used musical instruments or monetary donations, the Musical Instruments Fund seeks to help children:
- improve academic performance through the participation in music programs;
- learn discipline and perseverance;
- express themselves and build up their self-esteem; and
- practice their creative talents.
Donations support the costs for beginner violins ($200), cellos ($1,200), and other administrative fees.
KBE’s donation was given in honor of the company’s 50 Ways to Make a Difference initiative. Launched in 2009 to celebrate KBE’s 50th year in business, the program formalizes the construction company’s 50+ year legacy of charitable giving, and focuses on providing support for children, seniors, and military personnel. The annual program is funded by significant corporate donations, personal donations from the firm’s three owners, and donations and volunteer time contributed by KBE’s 120+ employees. KBE has also donated its professional services on a number of not-for-profit and community projects.
“One of the best things we get to do at KBE – besides constructing great buildings – is support programs in our community through our 50 Ways to Make A Difference program,” said Simon Etzel, Senior Vice President and a principal owner of KBE Building Corporation. “When we learned about the opportunity to support the Musical Instruments Fund for the CREC Foundation, it was a perfect fit for our philanthropic mission – making a difference in the lives of children.”
“We are honored to have KBE Building Corporation as a partner. Their generous donation will help us purchase musical instruments needed to enhance our elementary and secondary music program. We are very grateful for their support,” said Christina Peterman, Development Officer for the Foundation.