Simon Announced New Activation: Simon Supports Education
GURNEE, Ill. (June 7, 2017) - Simon, a global leader in retail real estate ownership, is proud to support Simon Youth Foundation (SYF) in its efforts to increase educational opportunities for at-risk students through Simon Supports Education. The movement incorporates several activations designed to engage shoppers in SYF's mission.
The Foundation operates 30 non-traditional high school academies across the country, housed primarily in Simon properties, and also provides a scholarship to one student in every community where there is a Simon property. Since its inception in 1998, Simon Youth Foundation has helped more than 14,000 at-risk students receive a high school diploma, and has awarded more than $16 million in scholarships.
This year, Gurnee Mills presented two recipients with scholarships. Destiny Schmidt, from Big Foot High School in Walworth, Wisc., received a $1,500 scholarship and she will attend Iowa State University this fall. Dylan Brown, from New Tech High at Zion- Benton East, in Zion, Ill., received a $500 scholarship and he will attend Purdue University this fall.
"Simon Youth Foundation is a national organization, but we can feel the benefit of its efforts right here at home," said Elizabeth Striegel, Director of Marketing and Business Development at Gurnee Mills. "We are incredibly proud to invite our shoppers to join us in supporting this incredible organization."
Gurnee Mills is now offering community members the opportunity to support local students through the purchase of Simon Gift Cards. One dollar from every SYF Simon Visa gift card purchase will support scholarship and graduation programs in the community. These eye-catching cards are the perfect gift for every graduate on your list this spring.
"Simon Youth Foundation believes that every student deserves the support necessary to earn their high school diploma, and that financial reasons should never be the reason preventing a student from pursuing their dreams," said Dr. J. Michael Durnil, President and CEO of SYF. "We are thrilled to have the support of our incredible corporate partner, Simon, and their Simon Supports Education movement."
About SYF
SYF is a national non-profit that partners with public school districts to open dropout recovery academies inside Simon shopping malls. The organization now has 30 Simon Youth Academies in 12 states. In the organization's 18-year history, more than 14,000 students have earned their diploma and more than $16 million in scholarships have been awarded. Visit syf.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter (@simon_youth), or Instagram (@simonyouthfoundation) for updates.
About Simon
Simon is a global leader in the ownership of premier shopping, dining, entertainment and mixed-use destinations and an S&P 100 company (Simon Property Group, NYSE:SPG). Our properties across North America, Europe, and Asia provide community gathering places for millions of people every day and generate billions in annual sales. For more information, visit simon.com.
About Gurnee Mills
Located at the intersection of Interstate 94 and Grand Avenue (IL 132) in Gurnee, Ill., Gurnee Mills is the largest shopping destination of its kind in the Chicago area, featuring an unparalleled selection of more than 200 outlet, full-price retailers, along with standout dining and entertainment offerings, all under one roof. Top-name brands include Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH, Forever 21, H&M, Guess Factory Store, Gap Outlet, Nike Clearance Store, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, LEGO Brand Retail Store, Charming Charlie, and a full-line Macy's.