More than 250 volunteers from Wells Fargo, City University of New York, Hunter College and the community participated in a day of service September 23, 2017, which transformed classrooms, offices, the library and other public spaces at East Harlem’s Public School/Middle School (P.S./ M.S.) 007. 
The volunteers constructed shared spaces that will be used by students, faculty and parents and they completed extensive interior and exterior renovations to benefit the 500 students enrolled at the school which is located at 160 East 120th Street In Harlem, NY. In addition, Wells Fargo representatives made a $50,000 donation to City Year New York, the non-profit which organized this volunteer initiative and supports other projects benefiting public schools throughout the five boroughs.
Once the project was completed, the visibly moved P.S. /M.S 007 Principal David Graeber shared with the volunteers the profound impact the transformation will have on the school and local community. “You have no idea what this work will mean for the children and families of this neighborhood. This school is a gem in the community and now, thanks to the volunteers here today, it is going to be the shining diamond this neighborhood deserves.”
“Samuel Stern [P.S. 007] has long served as a place of learning, hope and discovery for many students, thanks to a dedicated and passionate team of educators and staff,” said Jason Williams, Wealth Management senior managing director for Wells Fargo’s Northeast Region. “Today’s volunteer event is our way of saying thank you to these community heroes — and to do our part to build a better East Harlem for the school community and others in the area. “
The volunteer day included the painting of murals designed to inspire students and the construction of a family center where students, faculty, parents and the community could gather. A “Zen” space where students can study and experience quiet time was created and the building’s main office area was revamped. Hallways on all three floors also were freshened and inspirational quotes and pictures were painted on the walls. New chairs and furniture was also assembled for the library.
“We were so grateful to have the opportunity to partner with Wells Fargo, Hunter College, and P.S./M.S. 007 for the Wells Fargo Day of Caring,” said Laura Hamm, executive director for City Year New York. “The transformation of the day will fuel and nurture the academic achievement of the students who attend this school and other educational programs for years to come.”
Photo credit: 1): (L-R) Deborah Smit, Aldustus (A.J.) Jordan, Jason Williams, Principal David Graeber, Denise Goodman; and Nakia Alston-Hendrickson. 2) (L-R) Patrick Johnson, Deborah Smit, Jason Williams, Principal David Graeber, Denise Goodman, Aldustus (A.J.) Jordan, Nakia Alston-Hendrickson; Paralee Knight, and Brock Monroe. 3) Group picture of volunteers. 4) Volunteer in front of murals located at the school.Photos by Wells Fargo.
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