When Rivian Automotive Company opened its manufacturing plant in Normal in 2017, the company swiftly planted its roots in the BloNo community. Over the last eight years, the electric vehicle company has developed a strong partnership with Unit 5 and District 87. Rivian currently employs about 8,000 people at its plant in Normal, many of whom have children who attend school in the two local school districts.

“Here at Rivian, we talk a lot about Normal Pride. Normal Pride is not just coming to work and making electric vehicles, but it's also how we show up and give back to the community where the manufacturing plant is located,” said Laura Ewan, employee communications and experience manager at Rivian.

Ewan grew up in the Unit 5 school district. In previous jobs, she worked with Beyond the Books, noting she “knew about the fabulous work the non-profit did.” So, it was an easy fit for Rivian to partner with our educational foundation.

In 2021, the company committed to a $15K contribution, spread over three years, earmarked for STEM-related grants. In 2024, the company again committed to $5,000 for the next grant proposal cycle, beginning in January 2025. The partnership between Rivian and Beyond the Books is mutually beneficial. 

“The CEO of Rivian always talks about doing things for our kids, kids, kids,” said Ewan. “We need to leave this planet a better place than when we entered it. Supporting teachers is an excellent way of making this saying come to life as they work day in and day out to educate the youth in McLean County.”

As its mission promises, Rivian wants to “Keep the World Adventurous Forever.” Its financial commitment to Beyond the Books has already helped fund adventures in classrooms across BloNo. As part of this past year’s grant awards, Rivian funded three amazing science grants at Benjamin Elementary School (“Growing the World in our School Yard”), Normal West High school (“Science is Unbeleafable”), and Normal Community High School (“Balance in Biology”). 

Rivian is also paying it forward when it comes to its current commitment to local teachers and students. The company’s hope is that investment in STEM-related grants today will pave the way for “amazing talent to stay local and make a difference at Rivian in the years to come.”

Thank you, Rivian, for your commitment to the teachers and students of District 87 and Unit 5.