Kim Jones, a representative of the Borg Warner, Inc. in Frankfort, recently distributed presents to help brighten the holidays of students in the Kindergarten classes at Washington-McKinley School.
Jones learned about the students in talking with Diane Galante, a neighbor of Kindergarten teacher Lori Barberi. She then purchased, wrapped, and delivered the gifts just before the children left on winter break.
"I was proud to represent Borg Warner in this activity as part of our company's commitment to helping the students and all of the individuals making up the communities in which we work," Jones said
Dr. Gretchen Sutherland, Washington-McKinley's Principal, was grateful to Jones and Borg Warner for their active participation in a program that helped to improve the lives of the students at her school.
"We, as educators, are very aware of the circumstances in which our students reside and when we can partner with a community entity or a business such as Borg Warner that endeavors to make a positive impact on the lives of these young people we are most grateful," she said.
Barberi echoed Sutherland's sentiment.
"The importance of a positive experience in a student's life is immeasurable," she said, "and the reactions and wide smiles on our students' faces showed that this was a positive and much-appreciated experience."
Sutherland ended her statement by acknowledging Mrs. Barberi's efforts in securing partnerships that are advantageous to the school.
"I cannot praise Lori enough for her wonderful and diligent work in reaching out to individuals and businesses throughout the south suburban area to secure services and assistance to benefit various school activities and projects," she stated.
"Her commitment to making Washington-McKinley School the best that it can be is most commendable."
Borg Warner in Frankfort primarily operates in the transmissions, motor vehicle industry and employs approximately 450 people at its Frankfort location.