Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Bender Leadership Academy
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 1005 Beaver Grade Road, Suite 220
City: Moon Township
State: PA
Postal Code: 15108
Main Phone: 412-446-4448
Main Fax: N/A
Organization Website: https://benderleadership.org/
Employer ID Number: 830988251
Organization Tax Status: Nonprofit – 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 02/14/25
Requested Amount: $5,000

Project Title: General Operating
Project Description:

The Bender Leadership Academy (TBLA) is a nonprofit organization based in Pittsburgh. Our goal is to empower students with disabilities to address bullying, pursue education, and achieve their career goals. We vision a future where every student with a disability reaches their full potential through inclusive, equitable employment opportunities.

The transition into adulthood is challenging for every young person, and this is particularly true for those with disabilities. Part of a successful future includes finding and keeping employment. There’s a dilemma facing youth with disabilities — many experience high unemployment and insufficient opportunities to obtain employment with career growth potential.

Bender Leadership Academy offers a continuum of learning that increases the employability of students with disabilities and gives them a competitive advantage. We provide students with the necessary tools and opportunities to succeed and improve their lives.

Our programs help students build the foundation for a successful transition from school to work by developing self-confidence and both soft and work-based skills that prepare them for employment. Students can go on and earn employer-valued credentials to build a resume. They can apply skills and competencies while engaging in work-based experiences, and advance leadership abilities while engaging with their community. Our programs are aligned with Pennsylvania Department of Education Academic Standards for Career Education and Work.

Mental wellness components are woven into our programs, helping build resiliency, coping skills, and healthy relationships. We integrate community engagement into our programs to encourage students to become disability advocates and thoughtful citizens through civic leadership.

Our Mentoring Initiative provides one-on-one mentoring to youth with disabilities. The mentors serve as role models and help mentees by building strong relationships and teaching life skills.

Approximately 800 students are served annually through our programs and Disability Mentoring Day events.

Total Project Budget: $945,050

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust, FISA Foundation, Eden Hall Foundation, Jack Buncher Foundation, PA Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, A.J. and Sigismuda Palumbo Charitable Trust, Johnson Scholarship Foundation

Project Duration: 01/01/26 – 12/31/26
Geographical Area Served: Southwestern PA
Age Group To Be Served: High school students

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr.
Contact First Name: Scott
Contact Last Name: Hammerstrom
Contact Title: Manager of Programs and Partnerships
Contact Phone: 412-446-4448
Contact Email: shammerstrom@benderleadership.org