Since its origin in 1992, the Macomb Educational Foundation has attempted to help fill the gap where Parent Teacher Organizations, the District and booster organizations have been unable to provide funds.

The Foundation was created by a citizen's committee called together by administrators to discuss needs of the District. The idea of a foundation provided a tax exempt vehicle for community contributions to benefit students of District #185. Over the years our Foundation has been the recipient of two bequests of former District employees. These bequests were restricted to specific programs or grade levels; only the earnings and interest from the initial principal can be spent.

In addition, the sole fundraiser throughout the course of the Foundation's existence has been an annual coupon drive supported entirely by local merchants. Currently, Wal-Mart, Hy-Vee, Niemann County Market, Farm King, Sears of Macomb and Walgreens underwrite the effort. A portion of the proceeds are invested for growth and future use.....the earnings and remaining portion are used to fund semi-annual faculty requests.

The ultimate goal of the Foundation has and will continue to be to support efforts which will complement, enhance and enrich educational programs and opportunities for District #185. The MEF Board of volunteer community members serves rotating three year terms and meets the third Tuesday of every month. Questions or inquiries may be directed to any Board member from the list below.

Why should you support an Educational Foundation? Providing our children with a sound, well balanced education helps ensure the type of workforce we want to employ; the caliber of leadership we must have for continuity and success; and the level of committed citizens we need for tomorrow.

Funds are acquired through private and corporate donations, merchant sponsored coupon sales, memorials and bequests. You can help with a contribution by check or cash or pledging gifts of equipment or supplies; by establishing an endowment, bequeathing a memorial or honorarium from your estate or encouraging corporate matching funds through your employer.

Continual support is vital; please help prepare our children for the challenges of the 21st century. A tax deductible contribution to the Macomb Educational Foundation will be gratefully received and applied toward the objectives of the Foundation; those being..............to encourage excellence in learning through creative teaching; to facilitate opportunities in all areas of education; to promote and support a healthy interaction between schools and community and to provide funds for programs beyond the financial resources of the District.

Thank you for helping the Macomb Educational Foundation in its support of our community children.