09/20/10 - Learning Express Toys donates $3,600 to the Institute

Building on a history of support for Siskin Children’s Institute, Learning Express Toys recently presented an oversized check for $3,600 to Siskin Children’s Institute president and CEO Jerry Jensen. The funding will be used to purchase toys for the Siskin Early Learning Centers which serve young children with and without disabilities in Chattanooga. National toy company Melissa & Doug will donate $1500 for a grand totatl of $5100 worth of toys. 

The award-winning centers educate children with developmental disabilities, such as Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and autism spectrum conditions, as well as typically developing children.

“Giving back to the community where we live and work is central to our mission and operating philosophy,” said Mary Beth Conklin, owner, Learning Express Toys. “Siskin Children’s Institute is an outstanding organization and we’re proud to support them by providing toys that encourage creativity and learning and foster developmental growth.”

The donation is just one component of the partnership between Learning Express and the Institute that includes event sponsorships, fundraising and a 10% store-wide discount for all Institute parents.

“Learning Express Toys has been a great community partner,” said Mr. Jensen. “Their goal of serving children of all abilities and helping them further their potential and excel academically mirrors our efforts at Siskin Early Learning Centers. We’re especially grateful to Melissa & Doug for recognizing the value of our work and joining Learning Express in supporting Siskin Children’s Institute.”