Chevy Chase, MD (July 9, 2013) – National 4-H Council has received a generous gift from Massachusetts-based Philips North America in support of 4-H science programming and 4-H National Youth Science Day (NYSD).
4-H NYSD is the premiere national rallying event for year-round 4-H science programming. The event brings together hundreds of thousands of youth from across the nation to complete a single, innovative science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) related activity in an effort to spark an early interest in STEM education and careers. This year, 4-H National Youth Science Day, will be held on Wednesday, October 9 and will focus on youth exploring geospatial thinking and mapping technologies.
At the center of the 4-H/Philips partnership is an employee engagement initiative that will be implemented in several states including Kansas, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Texas and Washington through the Philip Cares community outreach program. Throughout the year, Philips employees will mentor and interact with 4-H young people at work on their science projects while also introducing 4-H’ers to their work, as well as some of the company’s innovative initiatives.
“National 4-H Council is thrilled to be teaming up with Philips in this unique way,” said Donald T. Floyd, Jr., president & CEO, National 4-H Council. “By supporting 4-H’s efforts to bring science and technology to youth all across the country, Philips is investing in the leaders of tomorrow, helping to inspire a new generation of innovators.”
As part of the 4-H/Philips partnership, Philips employees will meet with local 4-H youth and program leaders, volunteer at 4-H clubs as speakers, and participate in science workshops. In addition, the “Philips Career Day” will give 4-H youth an opportunity to tour company offices and learn about the work of the various departments. Finally, Philips will host a 2013 4-H NYSD event at locations in each of the five states.
“At Philips, we are committed to meaningful innovation and we hope to inspire 4-H youth as they see how technology can truly transform and enrich people’s lives in healthy, fulfilling ways,” said Greg Sebasky, chairman, Philips North America. “By investing in the future of our youth, especially in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math, we are contributing to a healthy, sustainable future for our communities.”