Evonik, one of the world’s leading specialty chemicals companies, has donated $80,000 to St. John United Way in support of educational programs in St. John the Baptist Parish.

The donation to the nonprofit organization served more than 1,000 children and youth in the region in 2023 and underscores Evonik’s ongoing commitment to education and diversity in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).

Beneficiaries of the donation included the Kids on the Move STEM Summer Camp, the St. John 4-H Club, and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Kids on the Move aims to provide a safe and engaging learning environment for children ages 4-13 and addresses the needs of disadvantaged and at-risk youth in St. John the Baptist Parish. The St. John 4-H Club is part of a national youth development organization associated with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Louisiana State University and offers members the opportunity to attend local and regional camps and
conferences. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a book-gifting program founded by the famous singer that mails free, high-quality books to children from birth to age 5. St. John United Way serves as its local affiliate.

“Evonik is proud to partner with St. John United Way to support children and youth on their educational journey,” said Kel Boisvert, member of Evonik’s North America Leadership Team (NALT) and Director of Operations Americas. “A solid educational foundation will open opportunities in promising STEM fields like chemical or pharmaceutical manufacturing.”

Evonik has supported St. John United Way for three consecutive years and also funds two scholarships for St. John the Baptist Parish residents majoring in process technology at River Parishes Community College. Process technology (PTEC) is the study and application of scientific principles for the operation and maintenance of complex chemical plants. PTEC programs prepare students for employment as process, research, or laboratory technicians.

“Evonik takes its responsibilities as a corporate citizen very seriously,” added Brittany Breaux, manager of the Evonik site in Reserve. “We are happy to support educational STEM programs in St. John the Baptist Parish to build a stronger community in Louisiana.”

“We are committed to uniting people and resources to create lasting changes in St. John the Baptist Parish by focusing on health, education, and financial stability,” said Dolores Montz, executive director of St. John United Way. “Children who read at a very young age do better in life, and we are excited that Evonik partners with St. John United Way to help close that educational gap.”

Evonik employs about 200 people in Louisiana at its sites in Garyville, Lafayette and Reserve.