PEAR support of and participation in the HEARTH PROJECT is major and ongoing. School supplies are collected by PEAR members for donation to the Project throughout the year. We have also provided hygiene kits. Supplies are collected at each PEAR meeting. Anyone can also drop off supplies at the PEA OFFICE in Bartow, 730 E Davidson Street. Anyone can send checks for supplies to PEAR at the Bartow address and supplies will be purchased and delivered to the HEARTH PROJECT office.
Each school year between 3 and 4 thousand of our 117,000+ Polk County Public School students experience homelessness, and additional students are at risk of being homeless. PEAR is proud to be a part of this service to our students by providing school supplies and hygiene products. We know that when students have the tools needed to learn, the work of the teacher is easier.
PEAR recognizes that copy paper is "pure gold" to classroom teachers. Therefore, each school year as many as 80 reams of copy paper are put in the hands of teachers. That works out to an over $600 value of direct support to teachers.
PEAR supports the JACK KINNAMAN SCHOLARSHIP FUND, named for the original Cat-in-The-Hat educator, this NEA Foundation administered fund provides scholarships of $3,500.00 to individuals preparing for a career in education. In recent years three Florida students have received scholarships in this nationwide program. PEAR currently contributes $1.00 per member.
PEAR works with FEA-Retired to award grants to active FEA members to provide that little extra that will enhance the learning experience for students. The grants are awarded on the basis of innovative ideas of engaging students in learning activities that stimulate and motivate. Grants are awarded toward the end of the first semester. The grant is for $150.00. PEAR and PEA also awards grants to a PEA member.
PEAR members volunteer in many settings. Some PEAR members volunteer in schools, in churches, in children and youth organizations, clubs, political campaigns, nursing homes, and free clinics, in service to neighbors and those who no longer drive. Really the list of volunteer opportunities is endless, PEAR members are all about staying Involved and continuing to Serve.
PEAR initiated a forum for school board candidates several years ago and has been joined by PEA in sponsoring an event each election cycle. Many PEAR members choose to donate to the PEA Political Action Committee. A significant number of members are actively engaged in political actions in the county, state, and nationally. We are particularly engaged in issues related to retirement and public education.