In May 2015, our employee volunteers stepped into Propel Hazelwood charter school in Pittsburgh, Pa., USA, for our very first COLORFUL COMMUNITES® project.
With paint brushes in hand, they set out to fill the school with brightness and joy.
Little did they know their efforts would resonate with students and educators for more than a decade and create a momentum that has now led to nearly 600 projects worldwide.
Bryan Iams, vice president, chief communications officer, communications and public affairs, participated in the first project and recently visited the school to reflect on the program.
“This is where it all started. The idea was let’s lean into what we do that can have the greatest impact in the communities where we operate,” said Iams.
At the time, Propel Hazelwood was a newly established location, in need of revitalization and color. Now 10 years later, leaders at the school still credit the Colorful Communities project as a launching point for success and inspiration.
In July, PPG employees will once again head into the hallways and classrooms of Propel Hazelwood for a 10-year celebration Colorful Communities flagship project.
Join us as we look back on our partnership with Propel and the lasting impact of the first Colorful Communities project.