News

Soap Box Derby Receives Grant From The Kenneth L. Calhoun Charitable Trust, KeyBank, Trustee

The International Soap Box Derby (ISBD) has received a $10,000-grant from Kenneth L. Calhoun Charitable Trust, KeyBank, Trustee, to be used for general operating support.

These funds will help enhance activities for racers, their families and spectators visiting Akron for the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby in July, help expand the Soap Box Derby’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education programs and grow participation in Soap Box Derby programs around the country.

“The Kenneth Calhoun Trust has been a consistent supporter of Akron’s Soap Box Derby for many years and we recognize the value and importance this event has to the community,” said Lucia M. Pileggi, Eastern Ohio Key Private Bank Market Executive. “Kenneth Calhoun established the charitable trust for the benefit of the Akron community.”

“The Calhoun Foundation has been a strong supporter of the Soap Box Derby for a number of years,” said Mark Gerberich, president and chief executive officer of the Soap Box Derby.  “We are thankful for their continued support as we use this money wisely to promote the mission of the Derby through education and racing.”

The ISBD provides opportunities for racing and STEM education with the Summit County Schools and Akron Public Schools, including the I Promise School, Salvation Army, South Street Ministries, Launch Kenmore, Akron Urban League, Urban Vision, Emmanuel Christian Academy, South Akron Youth Mentorship, Akron Rotary Camp, YMCA, Boys and Girls Clubs, and other organizations in Akron. This grant will help further the ISBD’s mission by providing meaningful experiences through fair and honest racing competitions, STEM curriculums, and other community-focused activities.