In its fifth year, the funding will support 26 non-profit organizations in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, Miami and Washington, D.C. that have demonstrated their commitment to improving educational opportunities for 6th through 12th grade students. Since the program\’s inception, more than $6M has been directed to education.

\”There is no better way to brighten the future of a young person than by helping him or her achieve success in the classroom,\” said Jeff Zucker, President and CEO of NBC Universal. \”That\’s why five years ago we focused our philanthropic efforts on secondary education. I am so pleased with the results of our investments, which have helped so many young people graduate from high school, begin college, and start on a path of lasting success.\”

As the new school year approaches, the foundation\’s signature program will continue to inspire students through a wide range of programs including college test preparation, career counseling, employment skill development and theater workshops that educate children through performance.

NBC Universal employees have been actively involved with this effort and will continue to support the organizations by volunteering as mentors, tutors and career speakers. Last year, NBC Universal employees donated close to 10,000 volunteer hours to their communities.

Previous grant recipients from 2009 have made significant strides in strengthening their students\’ academic performances. In New York, 100% of seniors participating in the MediaLab program with the Urban Arts Partnership have graduated from high school and have been accepted to college. Communities in Schools of Miami helped 94% of students involved in the Bridges to Graduation program increase their knowledge of work readiness skills, and was nationally recognized by the President at the State of the Union Address for its educational initiatives.