Dear Parent:

 

Welcome back to school!  I am writing as President of the Grossmont High School Educational Foundation, a nonprofit 501 (3) © organization that enhances the overall educational experience of your student by raising, managing and dispersing funds to support the academic, athletic, artistic and other needs of the school.  The purpose of this letter is to make sure that you understand what the Foundation is, what it does, and why WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT, NOW MORE THAN EVER.

 

Several years ago when the gaps in funding for public education were becoming apparent, interested parents and school personnel came together to identify how to best close those gaps in the face of even greater anticipated shortfalls.  We visited many campuses throughout San Diego County and found that those who had been most successful in both raising funds and prudent investment were those who had developed an independent, tax-exempt charitable foundation, whose officers included school officials, parents, alumni, business people and community leaders.  Thus, the Grossmont High School Educational Foundation was born.  In doing so, we have put ourselves in the company of Torrey Pines, La Jolla, Point Loma and other high schools that have been able to flourish during tough times through the collective power of a single foundation representing the many different campus groups and organizations.  The Foundation enables us to seek out large donations and grants, as well as collect small donations as part of our Annual Fund drive.  As an independent and tax-exempt organization, 100% of the money raised by the Foundation, or contributed to various groups through the Foundation, stays at Grossmont.

 

This year, with the State of California's budget crisis, the need for parental support and involvement is greater than ever.  Many of you are accustomed to writing that PTO check at the beginning of every school year.  We ask that you also consider a donation to our general fund and become a "Foothiller Friend."  Our website explains the different options for giving to the Foundation, which is the only major fundraising organization supporting the entire Grossmont campus.  If each of the families of our 2,600 students were to donate just $25 to the general fund, there would be $65,000 available this year for student scholarships, teacher mini-grants/supplies and the needed campus enhancements outlined on our website. Donations are accepted at any time.

Thank you in advance, for your support.  Anyone is welcome to attend our Foundation meetings.  We meet the third Monday of every month at 6:30pm in room 505, the workroom to the right of the library entrance. Information about the meetings, by-laws, Board of Directors and associated organizations can be found at our website at http://foothillerfoundation.com/.  Have a great school year!

 

Sincerely,

Ellen Erath

President

Grossmont High School Educational Foundation