Bluffton business donates to UF literacy program

Dan Stanowick, media and communications director for Shirley’s Gourmet Popcorn Company, hands a check to Allison Baer, Ph.D., Clubhouse director and associate professor of education.

The Clubhouse, The University of Findlay’s free literacy program for children in Hancock County and surrounding areas, received $4,620 from Bluffton-based Shirley’s Gourmet Popcorn Company.
The funding will help pay for The Clubhouse’s tutors.
Shirley’s Gourmet Popcorn Company representatives presented a check to Clubhouse organizers on Monday during the closing celebration of the Summer 2015 3-2-1 Program, which provides free small group tutoring on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
“Shirley’s gift to The Clubhouse will help countless children become better readers as every penny will go to support their reading skills and needs,” said Allison Baer, Clubhouse director and associate professor of reading at UF. “From what I’ve heard about Shirley, I think she would be thrilled knowing that a gift in her name is being presented to the children at The Clubhouse.”
“We’re incredibly proud that our customers here in the Findlay area made this possible,” said Pete Suter, Shirley’s co-founder and CEO. “The Clubhouse is an outstanding program, and it’s an honor to help UF continue to invest in the community.”
Children in grades 1-9 who are experiencing reading difficulties can receive free assistance at The Clubhouse during UF’s spring, summer and fall semesters.
Shirley’s Gourmet Popcorn Company is a growing franchise business with stores in Bluffton and Maumee, and additional locations planned throughout Ohio and the Midwest.
For more information on The Clubhouse, visit http://www.findlay.edu/education/the-clubhouse. Shirley’s Gourmet Popcorn Company’s website can be found at http://www.shirleyspopcorn.com.