From U.S. Cellular

U.S. Cellular announced April 5 that it is continuing its Community Connections program for the second consecutive year to support local youth organizations. Last year, the company sponsored more than 700 school groups and youth sports teams through a partnership with Pear, an online platform that connects local brands with local community needs. Beginning today, academic and athletic groups (K-12) in eastern North Carolina can sign up at www.pearup.com/uscellular to receive sponsorship from the company to go toward the needs of their group.

“As a neighbor and dedicated member of the eastern North Carolina community, U.S. Cellular is committed to supporting programs and organizations that have a positive impact in the lives of our youth,” said Jeremy Taylor, director of sales at U.S. Cellular. “These organizations provide valuable learning experiences, and this program provides an easy and fun way for the community to rally together to support them.”

Through the Community Connections program, U.S. Cellular sponsors hundreds of local youth groups, school programs and sports teams, such as little leagues, youth soccer clubs, school dance teams and bands. Once an interested group signs up at the website, they have 10 days to generate support from neighbors, friends, family and their community to earn points by completing simple tasks, such as visiting U.S. Cellular’s website, following U.S. Cellular on its social channels or answering a short survey. Points are then converted into dollars that go directly to the organization or group, and each group can earn up to $1,000 that can be used toward uniforms, equipment or other program needs.

Last year, U.S. Cellular provided $295,000 to youth organizations and school groups through this program, and this year the company will provide up to $300,000. In addition, in 2015 the company contributed $1.35 million to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education programs through its partnerships with Boys & Girls Clubs of America and National 4-H Council.