AVERILL PARK EDUCATION FOUNDATION

What is the Averill Park Education Foundation?

The Averill Park Education Foundation is a volunteer, non-profit organization that exists for the sole benefit of the students of Averill Park schools.

Founded in 2001, it is governed by a Board of Trustees and operates independently from the school district and the Board of Education. The Foundation provides funding for innovative and creative programs that go above and beyond the basic educational requirements for public education. The Foundation seeks tax-deductible contributions from community members, corporations, and larger foundations. Monies raised by the Foundation are distributed in the form of project awards and mini-grants, subject to the approval of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Awards will be focused in the areas of fine arts, advanced technology, cultural enrichment, sports and recreation, and general scholastic achievement.

What is the Foundation’s Mission?

The mission of the Averill Park Education Foundation is to provide funding for learning opportunities that are beyond the scope of the ordinary school district budget process.

The Bylaws of the Foundation state that its purpose is:

 To seek donations of funds, services and equipment and to allocate them to worthwhile education-related projects;

 To foster support from the community and private sector in service of the educational interests and needs of the students in the Averill Park Central School District;

 To serve as a catalyst to support and enhance school improvement programs that heighten learning opportunities for children and adults;

 To provide grants to develop innovative programs and activities in math, science and technology, fine and performing arts, language, culture, professional development and other educational needs;

 To provide grants to Averill Park Central School District educational staff members and citizens to initiate quality projects consistent with the goals of the Foundation and the Averill Park Central School District, and to bring positive attention to the Averill Park Central School District public schools.

How Does the Foundation Work?

The Officers and the Board of Trustees conduct the operations and business aspects of the Foundation.

Trustees chair standing and ad-hoc committees that organize and promote specific fundraising programs and events, such as annual individual and corporate giving campaigns, recognition dinners, alumni benefits, raffles and auctions. These committees are comprised of volunteers from the community and schools.

The grant review committee reviews applications for funding and equipment from teachers, students, administrators and citizens and makes recommendations to the trustees for funding. Approved funding may be in the form of major projects that will be the focus of extensive fund-raising efforts, or $200-$500 mini-grants for individual projects proposed by teachers. The committee also monitors performance to ensure that projects are properly carried out.

The fund-raising committee carries out an annual fund drive as well as special events such as award banquets. The fund-raising committee also applies for grants from corporations and larger foundations, so that support from the community can be used as leverage to obtain support for larger projects.

How Can I Help?

The Foundation welcomes many types and amounts of contributions – monies, items of value for auctions and raffles, in-kind services and, most importantly, your time as a volunteer.

For more information about the Foundation, or to send a donation, visit our website at:AverillParkEF.org

or contact us at:Averill Park Education Foundation P.O. Box 56 Averill Park, NY 12018