The Brady Corporation Foundation's motto "investing in tomorrow's leaders" encompasses its partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee's Daniels-Mardak branch, located near the company's headquarters on the north side of Milwaukee.

The foundation's interest in building leaders starts with the Boys & Girls Clubs' Spheres of Proud Achievement in Reading for Kids (SPARK) Early Literacy Program, which helps elementary school students who are starting to fall behind in reading. 

In 2007, the foundation invested $130,000 over three years to fund the SPARK Early Literacy Program.  This funding supports quality reading resources (books, games, computer-based educational programs, etc.), essential program supplies (paper, pens, crayons), incentives and awards to encourage members to keep reading and to reward them for their progress, and the hiring, training, and retention of reading specialists.

About 40 struggling readers from Holy Redeemer Christian Academy in kindergarten through 3rd grade, receive tutoring with specially-trained early literacy specialists from AmeriCorps and UWM School of Education. One-on-one tutoring sessions occur during the school day and the students participate in group activities twice a week after school.  Additionally, family activities are coordinated throughout the year to encourage reading at home.

"Research clearly shows that readers become better learners and, subsequently, better leaders," said Jim Clark, president and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee.  "We are very grateful for the support of the Brady Corporation Foundation, which allows us to further grow the program at the Daniels-Mardak branch."

In addition to the multi-year grant, the company's culture of generosity and the volunteer spirit of its employees has been exemplified over the first year of the partnership.

Brady Corporation donated a suite of printing equipment including a poster printer, awards maker, cut-out machine and laminator to produce program materials in the Boys & Girls Clubs.  In June, 30 volunteers from the Brady Corporation helped build a 2,500 square-foot playground at the Daniels-Mardak Boys & Girls Club, providing SPARK students with a safe place to play.

"Brady Corporation very clearly cares about the community and wants to be involved, more than just writing a check," said Pat Marcus, director of SPARK.

The Boys & Girls Clubs plans to work extensively with Brady on future volunteer opportunities, continuing a mutually fulfilling relationship.