Boeing employees help students lift off to a promising future

Each summer, Boeing sites across the U.S. participate in Liftoff for Learning, Boeing Global Engagement’s annual back-to-school drive that helps students return to school equipped with the necessary school supplies for success.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Snohomish County, Boeing partner and longtime Liftoff for Learning recipient, was one of 27 organizations that benefited from the drive across the country.

“Thanks to Boeing and Boeing employees, we distributed critical school supplies and backpacks to help students prepare for a successful start to the school year,” shared Robert Cannon, Boys and Girls Clubs of Snohomish County vice president of Resource Development. “And the support doesn’t stop there—through Liftoff for Learning, our Clubs will also be stocked with much-needed supplies during our homework help program, Power Hour.”

Puget Sound employees responded by donating a total of $45,000 to the drive. In addition, 777 employees in Everett even held their own fundraiser and supply drive, raising $4,000 in cash along with backpacks, pencils/pens, notebooks, and more.

The Liftoff for Learning drive is one many Boeing employees look forward to supporting each year.  In Oklahoma City, Chris Silvano, A Boeing Mobility, Surveillance and Bombers software engineer, has actively volunteered for Liftoff for Learning since 2017.

One year, Silvano filled his personal SUV with school supplies and delivered them to local schools, witnessing firsthand the joy it brought the community.

“When I was in high school and a member of FIRST Robotics, Boeing employees were there supporting my classmates and I as we dreamed of our futures. Now, I can be there for the next generation as they dream of theirs,” shared Silvano. “At Liftoff for Learning events, you get to see positive reactions from the students, parents, and teachers. It brings me satisfaction to think I did my part.”