Volunteers in the Vanguard

Photos  by John Armato

Volunteers from Vanguard Investment Corporation helped spruce up Pottstown High School during a "Day of Caring." Even a dummy ion the health occupations room can see the value of that.

Blogger's Note: The following was provided by the Pottstown School District.

The Pottstown School District and community taxpayers benefitted from a result of a partnership of volunteers from the Vanguard Investment Corporation, United Way, and the Pottstown School District. 

Vanguard employees (referred to as crew members) along with family members and representatives of the Pottstown School District participated in the annual “Day of Caring” sponsored by United Way of Southeast Pennsylvania. 

Both young and old gave up the pleasure of sleeping in late on a Saturday morning for the satisfaction that comes from working side-by-side with others for a worthy cause. 

This year’s projects included painting of the Pottstown High School Health Occupations Suite and landscaping of Barth Elementary School’s courtyard.

Dave Siravo, Vanguard Project Leader said, “The Vanguard Corporation’s philosophy includes a strong component of community involvement and commitment. Our crew members are dedicated to making a positive difference in the community. I am particularly proud of the fact that many of our crew members bring their younger children along so that the seeds of community service are sown early.”

The day’s project goals were accomplished quickly because, as always, the Vanguard crew comes with enthusiasm, organization, and focus. 

Working side-by-side with Vanguard volunteers were Barth Elementary School Principal Ryan Oxenford, Michaela Johnson, Health Occupations Teacher; Danielle McCoy, Director of Career and Technical Education; Nick Yonas, member of the Buildings and Grounds crew; and John Armato, Director of Community Relations. 

Mr. Oxenford said, “It is exciting to see so many people willing to give of their personal time to make a difference in our community.” 

Nick Yonas, who is also a Pottstown graduate, was responsible for the onsite organization of materials and work crews. He said, “This is an exciting experience for me. Seeing so many people willing to give their time to help our school district makes me proud to be an alumni.” 

Michaela Johnson, also a PHS graduate, said, “My students will be surprised when they come to class on Monday and see that their classrooms have a warm and inviting atmosphere because of the efforts of the Vanguard crew.”

John Armato, Director of Community Relations and honorary graduate of 2014 Pottstown High School, took part in the day’s events. 

 “Partnerships, such as these, help to save valuable taxpayer dollars while completing much needed school district projects. The adults and young people today served as role models and have done their part to ensure that our community moves forward in a positive fashion. Today’s events are just another reason for us to say, Proud to be from Pottstown.”