Harrisonburg Education Foundation (HEF) was thrilled with the success of our first ever Flourish appeal last year. Thanks to our generous donors, more than $65,000 was raised laying the groundwork for a great spring tradition. Our fundraising success during Great Community Give resulted in third place with an awarded cash bonus! Your continued support inspires grant projects, engages our community in more teacher appreciation and ensures students have resources for their needs. HEF is listening to our schools and our community. So much can be accomplished if we work together. Despite the challenges in our world and in schools everywhere, HEF supports and amplifies the positive work happening in our local city schools. Our focus continues to celebrate the tireless efforts of educators, provide funding for innovative ideas in learning, and assist students with the ever-rising expense of college. A strong public education system is one of the greatest assets of any community. By appreciating, communicating, and collaborating with our teachers, we build a stronger and more stable education system for our students. Flourish energizes and inspires the best in our community for the sake of our children’s futures.
With gratitude, we welcome the opportunity to engage with Flourish supporters at our year-end event, Bloom in the Burg. Alongside our hardworking educators, we’ll celebrate the end of another school year and the opportunities you made possible. Our most generous supporters are invited next fall to join the presentation of Big Checks to surprise winning grantees. Donors at every level of giving will receive updates on the ways their contributions Help Education Flourish. By supporting HEF, you can see your investment in city schools.
Cap & Gown Club Each year Harrisonburg High School staff have the additional worry of making sure that all students have a cap and gown at graduation. Various staff people lend money or give money to cover students who do not have the funds. Join HEF in the Cap & Gown Club. Any donor gift that ends in $23 (i.e. $123, $1,023, $2,523) will become a member. HEF will publicly thank the Cap & Gown Club on graduation day via social media and our website.
Thanks-A-Lotto Last year, HEF developed “Thanks-A-Lotto,” modeled after scratch-off lottery tickets for the 1,000+ employees of Harrisonburg City Public Schools. Every HCPS employee received a scratch-off card, to serve as a heart-felt thank you card. Behind the silver circle was either an encouraging note from a community member or a donated prize. Gift cards, plants, experiences, artwork, or crafts were donated to surprise and delight our hardworking HCPS employee. This appreciation project is an easy way for the community to express thanks to staff in all our schools. Think of it as a silent auction in reverse, where your in-kind donation will be given directly to a deserving educator. Please contribute your in-kind donations as part of your annual commitment.