FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Mayor Wharton Launches Literacy Initiative in Collaboration with International Paper CONTACT INFORMATION Memphis, Tennessee (September 24, 2013). Memphis Mayor A C Wharton, Jr., today, announced the L.I.F.E. (Literacy Is Free Expression) literacy initiative, offering a literacy curriculum, job readiness training and mentorship to at-risk young males. Operating at the Pine Hill, Riverview, Ed Rice and Hollywood Community Centers, this innovative program is made possible through generous funding from the International Paper Foundation. “Memphis Gun Down is so thankful for International Paper’s investment to improve the lives of some the City’s most disconnected and vulnerable youth. The L.I.F.E. literacy initiative is much more than just a literacy program. These young men will be exposed to positive role models invested in their success, and equipped with the tools for intellectual advancement, gainful employment and responsible citizenship,” said Mayor Wharton. Part of Memphis Gun Down’s Youth Opportunities initiative, the L.I.F.E. program will target young men between the ages of 13-24 who read between fourth and eighth grade levels, and will employ Scholastics’ ID Curriculum, delivered by trained volunteer mentors and designed specifically to improve African-American male literacy. In addition to improved literacy, L.I.F.E.’s goals include increasing educational attainment and expanding the employment opportunities available to these young men. “International Paper is pleased to collaborate with Mayor Wharton and Memphis Gun Down’s efforts to reduce youth gun violence in the City of Memphis,” said Deano Orr, Executive Director of the International Paper Foundation. “Research proves that there is a direct link between low literacy and crime. One of our philanthropic focus areas is literacy, and we are excited about the potential impact this program will have on the lives of participants.” About International Paper International Paper (NYSE: IP) is a global leader in packaging and paper with manufacturing operations in North America, Europe, Latin America, Russia, Asia and North Africa. Its businesses include industrial and consumer packaging and uncoated papers, complemented by xpedx, the company's North American distribution company. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., the company employs approximately 70,000 people and is strategically located in more than 24 countries serving customers worldwide. International Paper net sales for 2012 were $28 billion.For more information about International Paper, its products and stewardship efforts, visit internationalpaper.com. About Memphis Gun Down Kerri Campbell Mayor’s Innovation Delivery Team 901.515.7742 [email protected] Deano Orr International Paper 901.419.4080 [email protected]