Earlier this year, The Switzer Learning Center (Switzer), a long-time community partner of the Torrance Refinery welcomed Jeremy Deming as its new Executive Director. Deming has worked in the nonprofit sector for more than 20 years, most recently as Chief Executive Officer at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Central Coast.
Switzer began as the South Bay Center for Educational Therapy 56 years ago and was founded by Dr. Janet Switzer, a nationally recognized educator of children with learning disabilities.
Part of what drew Deming to Switzer and its mission was his experience navigating the system of care for his foster son and the challenges facing children with special needs. Now that he’s settled into his new role, Deming said he’s excited to build a new enrichment program for students and work to ensure all of the services they need are available under one roof.
Torrance Refinery is longtime supporter of Switzer having had numerous management representatives’ volunteer to provide their personal expertise to the organization while the company provided support through much-needed funding. Deming noted the Refinery is a consistent community partner, not only financially, but with the generosity of time donated by employees who are always willing to step up and lend a hand. Barbara Graham, community relations manager at the Refinery, serves as Chair of Switzer’s Board of Trustees. Deming credited her with leading the organization through recent challenges, helping him make connections in the community, and setting up the organization for continued success.
When asked for her thoughts about the incoming Executive Director, Graham said, “It’s our company culture to engage with our community and give of ourselves through volunteerism, so I’m proud we have been a Switzer partner for decades. Having exposure to the organization for many years, I’m particularly excited about the new direction and vision for program development and career growth Jeremy has brought to Switzer – he’s passionate about it and it shows.”
Torrance Refining Company recently provided $10,000.00 in seed funding to help Switzer develop it’s After-school Enrichment Program. “I’m hoping that others in our community will visit Switzer to learn about the value services it provides to our young people. Then, perhaps they too will decide it is a very worthy organization to support,” said Graham.
To learn more about The Switzer Learning Center, click here.