More Stories
Celebrate Arts in Education Month
This March, in honor of Arts in our Schools Month, we invited our art, music, film and culinary teachers to share their personal journeys and insights into why art instruction is important in special education schools.
A360’s ‘TEC’ Creates Meaningful Experiences for Young Women
Academy360 Upper School's revived after-school program for girls underscores the enduring value in fostering connections, building confidence, and creating lasting memories.
Dual Enrollment Program Opens Doors for Young Adults
The partnership with Essex County Community College will help prepare students in Academy360's Young Adult Program for post-secondary success.
In most circumstances, mosquitoes generally bring nothing but itching, scratching, and annoyance, but at Spectrum360’s annual Walk for a Lifetime, the sight of Western Pest Services’ giant mosquito mascot brings only smiles and laughter to the faces of S360’s students, families, and walk participants. It also reminds us all of their enduring support.
Western Pest Services has been a dedicated friend and Silver Sponsor of Spectrum360’s Walk for a Lifetime for the past seven years, raising over $30,000 for S360’s services. They see their support as a testament to their commitment to the communities they serve. The connection began through Frank Giovannucci, Western’s service manager, whose son Robert was a student at Spectrum360. When the opportunity arose to become a walk sponsor, Western didn’t hesitate, and it has been a rewarding partnership ever since.
For the last four years, Stephen S. Swanson, Branch Manager at Western Pest Services, has personally attended the fundraising walk, and for the past two, he and his team have coordinated Western’s participation.
While the work leading up to the walk can be demanding, Stephen says, “Everyone at Western who is involved in the walk personally loves the experience of making the kids smile and making a difference in their everyday lives.”
He emphasizes the pleasure and satisfaction Western finds in contributing to Spectrum360’s mission. “The smiles we get when we are handing out treats and giveaways are always so rewarding,” he says. “It’s for a cause we believe in, the people we support, and the communities we serve.”
Western Pest Services’ generosity has supported many vital aspects of Spectrum360’s work, from after-school programs and respite services to employment support. While Stephen is pleased that Western can contribute to all these areas, the true motivation stems from the company’s core values. As an organization, Western genuinely believes in giving back to the communities where they operate.
“Whether it is taking care of pests for the businesses and residents we serve or supporting nonprofits like Spectrum360, we love making a difference in people’s lives.”
For other companies considering getting involved with nonprofits, Stephen offers straightforward advice: Supporting your communities can change lives. He highlights Western’s long history of partnerships with organizations like the YMCA and Relay for Life, encouraging everyone to step up and help transform the lives of those facing unique challenges.
“We look forward to many more years working with Spectrum360,” says Stephen.
Western Pest Services’ partnership with Spectrum360 illustrates how a business can extend its commitment to service beyond its core operations, creating meaningful connections and making a positive impact on a community.
.