PGi is one of the first corporations to partner with Cristo Rey.
When Boland Jones, founder, chairman and CEO of PGi, the global leader in collaboration software and services, was asked to sponsor four students from Cristo Rey Jesuit High School in their work-study program, he readily agreed.
“We were excited to help,” says Jones, a Buckhead resident and major supporter of Cristo Rey, the Midtown Catholic school that prepares at-risk students for success. The curriculum is so effective that 100 percent of the students are accepted into colleges.
“PGi was one of the early adapters,” says Bill Garrett, president of Cristo Rey. “Boland is a consummate salesman and has encouraged other companies to mentor our young interns, as well as provide sponsorship for our fundraising golf tournament.”
Internships defray the $17,000 needed to educate each student and provide meaningful work experiences for four teens five days a week at PGi. “The computer skills of these high school freshmen are staggering,” Jones says. “I’ve been impressed with their poise and hard work.”
“Cristo Rey recruits average students willing to obey the rules, work hard and make a difference,” Garrett says. “Their success comes from having nurturing adults who give them a glimpse of what is possible.” The school is actively seeking 25 additional corporate partners willing to contribute to the success of Cristo Rey students.
For more information: cristoreyatlana.org, pgi.com.
