March 5, 2007
Written by Cory Chandler
United Supermarkets pledged a $1 million gift today to support Texas Tech University’s
new Center for Prevention and Resiliency in implementing and evaluating a character-building
program for children and young adults.
The program, United Future Leaders, will promote qualities such as civility, ethics
and leadership to help Lubbock grade school students navigate challenges and temptations
inherent in transitioning to middle school. United will pay the pledge at a rate of
$200,000 per year for the next five years.
"We are delighted to partner with the Center for Prevention and Resiliency in the
establishment of the United Future Leaders program," said Dan Sanders, CEO of United
Supermarkets Ltd. "For more than 90 years, United has been a training ground for young
people interested in learning about leadership. It is truly one of the most gratifying
aspects of our business – knowing that so many of our young people go on to make a
positive impact in the communities in which they live."
The five-year agreement begins spring 2007, when fifth graders from Rush and Murfee
Elementary Schools will participate in a six-week pilot. Upon the pilot’s completion,
students, parents, school personnel and United Future Leaders facilitators will evaluate
the program and oversee planning for expanded implementation in additional schools
beginning this fall.
"United Supermarkets’ generous gift will help us realize a long-held dream to create
a program that will equip our kids to become champions in their own lives and the
lives of others," said Kitty Harris Wilkes, co-director of the Center for Prevention
and Resiliency. "The impact of this gift on the Lubbock community and its youth will
be felt for many years to come."
Former Texas Tech women’s basketball Coach Marsha Sharp was instrumental in securing
the funding and will help identify graduate assistants – some of them former Lady
Raiders – who can readily connect with the children they will be mentoring.
A longtime champion of programs to boost confidence and self-esteem, Sharp applauded
United Supermarkets’ generosity and has already begun promoting the United Future
Leaders to parents and students. She envisions the initiative expanding until it affects
enough children and young adults to positively impact the social culture in city high
schools.
"My work with student athletes taught me that elements such as civility, ethics and
leadership can provide a platform that kids can use to overcome challenges, whether
on the court or in life," said Sharp, associate director for the program. "United
Supermarkets has been crucial in making this vision achievable."
"United Supermarkets is grateful for the commitment of Dr. Harris Wilkes and coach
Sharp to this innovative program," Sanders added. "We are confident this program will
change the lives of young people and, in doing so, shape the future for good."
Texas Tech Chancellor Kent Hance also praised United, noting the company’s long history
of partnering with Texas Tech, which includes providing a $10 million gift to lead
fundraising for the United Spirit Arena.
"Once again, United Supermarkets has proven that it is a good citizen of Lubbock and
a supportive friend of Texas Tech University," he said. "With United’s help, we will
be able to positively influence children at a critical juncture of their lives as
they transition from childhood into young adulthood."
CONTACT: Juli Buchanan, director of public relations and education, The Ranch at Dove
Tree and the Center for the Prevention and Resiliency, (806) 742-2891, or juli.buchanan@ttu.edu.