Pictured from left to right: T.J. Reisdorf, SVP, Senior Client Advisor First Commonwealth Advisors; Karen Sue Owens, President & CEO Lifesteps, Inc.; Julie Thumma, Specialist,  Resource Development Lifesteps, Inc.

(Butler, PA) Lifesteps is the recipient of a $10,000 donation from First Commonwealth Bank through the  Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Program of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and  Economic Development (DCED). The gift will be used to fund Transitions… The Next Step for Young Adults. 

Lifesteps’ Transitions provides vocational and employment skills training for high school students and young  adults with disabilities. The program improves the likelihood these individuals will reach their fullest  potential and live the most productive and independent lives possible.  

“We want to thank First Commonwealth Bank for their generous gift through the EITC program,” said Karen  Sue Owens, President and CEO of Lifesteps. “Their donation will allow Lifesteps to expand the number of  participants in our Transitions Program, as we help them along their life’s journey.” 

Lifesteps is approved to receive donations both as an approved Educational Improvement Organization (EIO)  and a Pre-Kindergarten Scholarship Organization (PKSO). For eligibility requirements or to apply for a  scholarship, please visit www.lifesteps.net.  

Pennsylvania’s EITC Program enables businesses to receive tax credits when making contributions to an  approved educational organization, like Lifesteps, at little or no cost to them. Businesses who participate in  the program receive up to a 100 percent tax credit when making contributions to organizations that provide  Pre-K Scholarships for low- and middle-income children and/or up to a 90 percent tax credit for contributions  supporting educational programs or scholarships for students in grades K-12. 

Lifesteps is a non-profit agency that has served Pennsylvania communities since 1923. Services for children,  families, adults with disabilities and seniors are designed to encourage growth, independence, confidence  and dignity. The programs span the age spectrum, ranging from free developmental screenings for infants  and toddlers to programs that allow adults with intellectual disabilities live an “Everyday Life,” and are  encouraged to be as independent as possible. For more information, visit lifesteps.net.