IBEW 124 Journeyman, Ray Sawyer, saw an opportunity to help area youth after speaking with Mike Graham, President of TPT Education Leaders, (Tomorrow’s Promise Today). The past year has been especially challenging for students due to virtual learning. Students needing education support had grown exponentially during the pandemic. Students have fallen behind during the pandemic, and teachers are concerned some may never catch up.

TPT is an educational support non-profit organization that serves students throughout the Kansas City metro area, including students from Olathe, Shawnee, Kansas City, KS, Piper, Independence, Lees Summit, Raymore, and many more. The K through 12th grade students participating in the program benefit from high level instruction from certified teachers who have a passion to change lives. The services are made possible through community sponsors that go above and beyond in making a way for our leaders of tomorrow.

Ray understood the benefits TPT provided and approached his union about the opportunity to support this critical organization. IBEW Local 124 welcomed the opportunity to assist and made a donation to help support students through the TPT Educational program. Next steps include providing students an opportunity to gain an understanding of the trade unions and the careers available to them. Mike Graham, President of TPT Educational, is motivated to close the academic skill gaps, especially in reading and math. TPT also provides ACT prep courses.

Left to Right: Chris Heegn, IBEW 124 Business Agent/Membership Development; Mike Graham, President TPT Education Leaders; Ray Sawyer, IBEW 124 Journeyman; James Wilkerson, IBEW 124 Executive Board Secretary.

“It truly takes a village to make a difference in these students lives. I am sincerely grateful to IBEW Local 124 for their support and commitment to our youth. I look forward to building a strong relationship with the union and excited to see how we can partner to educate the students about opportunities available to them in the trades.” said TPT’s Mike Graham. Thank you to Ray for identifying the need and taking the initiative to help these students, and to IBEW Local 124 for their generous donation which will make an impact and provide a life changing opportunity for many of these students. For more information, visit: https://www.tptleaders.com.