OREANDA-NEWS. October 8, 2012. Today, more than 400 students and faculty of Lafayette Elementary School, located in Chicago's Humboldt Park, participated in a fun, high-energy, half-day of activities organized by GE Capital volunteers, including exercise stations designed to encourage physical activity. During the event, GE also presented the school with a check for a substantial amount to support the school’s orchestra program, and students of the orchestra performed as part of the presentation ceremony.

“The GE Capital-Lafayette partnership is a great example of how Chicago-area businesses can have a significant impact on the students of this city,” said Jean-Claude Brizard, CEO of Chicago Public Schools. “When corporations lend their financial and human resources to schools, students benefit the most. We appreciate GE Capital’s support of Lafayette’s enrichment programs, which help enhance the overall learning experience for students.”

To learn more about GE Capital’s relationship with the Lafayette School, click here: http://www.americas.gecapital.com/company-information/main

GE Capital initiatives at the school include:

After-School Orchestra: Research shows that music education enhances fine motor skills, improves recall and retention of verbal information, advances math achievement, improves average SAT scores and strengthens perseverance. More than 100 students participate in the orchestra, which meets after school four days a week. Without the support of GE Capital and fundraising by the students, Lafayette would not be able to offer the after-school orchestra program.
BEE Healthy Initiative: After learning that the Greater Humboldt Park community has nearly double the national incidence of diabetes, GE developed an educational program focused on healthy living, and organized a 5K run/walk on Oct. 6, 2012.
“GE is committed to Chicago communities, and we’re pleased to be able to give back through our partnership with Lafayette Elementary School,” said Gary Kempinski, general manager of Schaumburg-based Navistar Capital. “GE Capital has made a significant commitment to the school, providing financial and volunteer support to help students and the school’s administrators through skill-building assistance. It’s a rewarding partnership. While our volunteers have an impact on the students, the students certainly impact our volunteers.”