Capital Region Sponsor-A-Scholar Makes Major Announcement, Unveils New Name: 518 ElevatED
Celebrates 25 Years Serving Students from Albany, Schenectady and Troy Public High Schools; Cuts Ribbon at New Headquarters
July 21, 2022 – 518 ElevatED, formerly Capital Region Sponsor-A-Scholar, today unveiled a new name and logo during a ribbon-cutting celebration at its new headquarters on Central Avenue in Albany County. The event was attended by Rick Field, Deputy Supervisor of the Town of Colonie, Albany Councilmembers Tom Hoey and Owusu Anane, Troy City Schools Assistant Superintendent Donna Watson, and many Scholars, Alumni, and Representatives from the Capital Region and Rensselaer County Chamber of Commerce and many Community supporters.
“Over the past few years everyone’s lives have changed in ways they probably never imagined. Change can be scary but change also comes with opportunity and growth,” stated 518 ElevatED’s President and CEO Laura Marx. “Our program and mission has always been and will continue to be focused on elevating youth in the Capital Region. We wanted a name that represented the multifaceted components of the organization and the students, families and community we serve.”
“518 ElevatED is a community of people who are passionate about giving back and enriching people’s lives,” added George Lopez, Community Engagement Coordinator at the Albany Housing Authority and Alumni of 518-ElevatED. “I have been involved with this program since I was 15 years old. It has been a great asset to me and has inspired me to work with young people in High School and College. The process of realizing the dream of higher education is complicated and unfortunately, many students do not get the support they need to accomplish this goal. 518 Elevated provides that support!”
Over 50 people gathered to celebrate the 25th Anniversary and ribbon-cutting of the new office. The surprise announcement was well received.
“We were so happy to see so many from the Capital Region community come here today to share in our good news,” stated Marx. “We appreciate their support!”