Tyrone Russell and Kevin Greene of FACES International
Three local organizations are set to benefit donation from Black-owned marketing firm, Faces International
‘Faces International, a firm based in Allentown Pa., announced James Lawson Freedom School, DaVinci Science Center and Harrington Institute for Cannabis Education as the three beneficiaries of a donation totaling $100,000.
James Lawson Freedom School will be awarded $50,000 to boost its summer literacy program for African American Children, while Harrington Institute will receive $25,000to help further its mission to provide equitable access to the cannabis industry through quality cannabis education. The DaVinci Science Center will $25,000 to aid in its mission “to bring science to life and lives to science.”
This bold philanthropic move is part of Faces International’s mission to strengthen and advance its community. As one of the top marketing firms in the northeast, the company is on a new trajectory of raising the bar of giving from communities that have been traditionally left out of the conversations and fundraising campaigns.
“It’s extremely important that we recognize the power of our dollar in the decision-making processes of shaping our community,” said Tyrone Russell, CEO of Faces International. “Dollars in philanthropy provide direction and we are truly fortunate to have the ability to support and drive change in this way.”
The principals of James Lawson Freedom School, DaVinci Science Center and Harrington Institute have all expressed their gratitude for the donation.
“For far too long the “world” of philanthropy has been perceived to be an environment dominated by predominantly white entities and persons in white skin identity providing financial resources to organizations in need,” said the Rev. Dr. Gregory Edwards, CEO of James Lawson Freedom School. However, many persons of Black African Heritage know and have a lived experience antithetic to this dominant narrative. One based upon Black persons from a wide array of socio-economic backgrounds contributing financially to build and advance religious, civic, fraternal and educational institutions for the betterment of the entire community. The thoughtful and generous financial gift given to the James Lawson Freedom School by FACES International is the reclamation of that often hidden or forgotten narrative.”
Former NBA player, and co-founder of both Viola and the Harrington Institute, Al Harrington, said: “It’s really important for us to support young talent. There are so many bright minds in our community that haven’t been able to participate in the cannabis industry. We hope this donation encourages others to support students by sponsoring classes at the Harrington Institute. The only way to build a more equitable industry is by working together. ”
“We are thrilled to have the support of Faces International to increase access to learning at the DaVinci Science Center. FACES International understands the importance of giving back to the community, and we could not be more grateful” said Lin Erickson, executive director and CEO at the DaVinci Science Center.
“Giving is the commitment to being a part of the change you want to see in the world. Your time and your capital matters to the process and we will stay committed with all our available resources,” said Kevin Greene, COO of Faces International.
For more information, visit: https://facesint.com.
About Faces International
Founded in 2012, Faces International is one of the top marketing firms in the northeast United States. The firm offers a range of innovative marketing solutions for local businesses to help them increase brand awareness, improve service and promote positive influence throughout the region. Faces International also provides trainings and workshops aimed at equipping teams, staffs and students with the necessary skills to successfully navigate the workplace, classroom and personal relationships. Through their services, the firm instills values that emphasize the importance of a successful pipeline between businesses and the community.