United Way of Morris County News
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State Farm, a Good Neighbor to United Way and Youth
May 8, 2007

At United Way's Annual Mentoring Celebration on May 2nd, a mutual show of recognition took place between State Farm and United Way of Morris County.  Joseph Walker, a State Farm employee and volunteer mentor, was honored by United Way of Morris County.  Arlene Lester of State Farm in turn presented United Way with a grant from State Farm Insurance Companies to continue its efforts in training mentors. 

State Farm generously supported two United Way of Morris County programs with a $15,000 grant this year; the organization's Mentor Training and Consulting Center, as well as its Youth Leadership and Service Council.  In presenting the check, Lester thanked JoAnn Tsonton, manager of United Way's Mentor Training and Consulting Center, for her ongoing support and enthusiasm for mentoring programs. 

United Way of Morris County has a longstanding relationship with State Farm Insurance Companies.  Since September 2001, dozens of State Farm employees have been trained by United Way's Mentor Training program.  Volunteer mentors then go on to work with students at Garrett Morgan Academy of Transportation and Technology. 

This longstanding partnership between Garrett Morgan Academy, State Farm, and United Way of Morris County has resulted in great success for the most important piece of the equation – the students.  In the past two years $250,000 in college scholarships were awarded to graduates who participated in the mentoring program at the Academy.  

State Farm mentors meet regularly with their designated student at Garrett Morgan Academy.  Among the dedicated employees who volunteer their time to this meaningful project is Joseph Walker.  Walker was honored at the Mentoring Celebration and singled out by Lester for his dedication and commitment to mentoring. 

At the Annual Mentoring Celebration, Lester also commented on plans to expand the mentoring program at Garrett Morgan Academy.  State Farm is now working to train juniors who will become mentors for incoming freshman. 

For more information on United Way's free Mentor Training program, email JoAnn Tsonton or phone 973.993.1160 x120.