PPG announced the completion of a vibrant transformation at Propel Hazelwood charter school, commemorating the 10th anniversary of its global Colorful Communities program. This project marks a meaningful return to the very first Colorful Communities site, launched a decade ago, and now one of nearly 600 completed worldwide.

The Colorful Communities initiative combines PPG’s products and employee volunteerism to uplift neighborhoods and positively impact local residents. As students return this fall, they’ll be welcomed by freshly painted doors and entryways, a revitalized cafeteria, and a new exterior logo design. Volunteers also created an interactive obstacle course on the school’s basketball court using Ennis-Flint by PPG Decomark preformed thermoplastic markings. Additionally, they assembled 4,600 STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) kits to support learning throughout the academic year. PPG collaborated with TrafficScapes-certified applicator Laurel Asphalt to install the obstacle course, which was designed by Traverse Landscape Architects. Architectural paint products were provided by The Pittsburgh Paints Company.

“Ten years ago, we set out to fill Propel Hazelwood with brightness and joy. This school is where it all started, and even today, we hear how our volunteers’ efforts continue to resonate with students and educators,” said Malesia Dunn, Executive Director, PPG Foundation and Corporate Global Social Responsibility. “We’re proud to return as we strengthen our partnership with Propel and continue to protect and beautify spaces where students in our hometown feel supported and inspired.”

At the time of the initial project in 2015, Propel Hazelwood was a newly established school in need of revitalization and color. A decade later, school leaders credit the Colorful Communities project as a catalyst for long-term success. Since then, PPG employee volunteers have also revitalized other Propel campuses, including those in Braddock Hills and Homestead.

“We are deeply grateful for PPG’s commitment to our school community through the Colorful Communities program,” said Dr. Tina Chekan, CEO/Superintendent, Propel Schools. “A decade ago, volunteers not only brought new life to Propel Hazelwood with fresh paint, but also enriched our scholars’ learning by teaching them about the science and technology of color. We’re thankful that this partnership continues to evolve, nurturing our students’ interest in STEM careers.”

Propel Hazelwood is one of 10 flagship projects worldwide that serve as cornerstones in the program’s 10-year celebration. To mark the milestone, PPG has committed to extending the Colorful Communities program for another 10 years and investing $15 million to further its mission of community transformation. As part of the celebration, PPG and the PPG Foundationwill also award $1 million in grants to 100 current and past Colorful Communities partners globally. As PPG’s signature community initiative, the Colorful Communities programaims to protect and beautify neighborhoods where PPG operates. Through nearly 600 projects across more than 50 countries, the program has impacted over 10.2 million people since its launch in 2015. From painting classrooms to transforming playgrounds and maternity wards, PPG volunteersuse their time and products to create lasting change.