The Chandler Education Foundation (CEF) was founded in 1986 with one key mission in mind: To ignite the power of community fundraising to fuel access, innovation, and excellence within the Chandler Unified School District.
“Through the concerted efforts of the CEF team and the steadfast support of our board of directors, we coordinate events, campaigns, and partnerships to generate financial support for schools,” notes Jen Hewitt, executive director, adding that as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation, CEF is sustained by the generosity of the public.
The funds that CEF raises are allocated towards diverse initiatives, including classroom enrichment grants, student and teacher scholarships, emergency funds for families facing crises, college readiness programs, and varying district endeavors—such as the recent opening of the Hope Institute, the first school-based suicide treatment center.
“During the 2022-2023 academic year, CEF contributed nearly $400,000 to enhancing support and resources for the CUSD community,” Hewitt notes.
People who are interested in supporting CEF are invited to participate in the annual Winner’s Choice Car or Cash Raffle fundraiser.
Tickets, which cost $20 each, are available for purchase at https://bit.ly/CEFCarOrCashRaffle, with the drawing on March 8.
The Grand Prize winner will choose between receiving $27,000 off the MSRP of a Toyota vehicle or $20,000 cash.
“The fundraiser supports scholarships for graduating seniors and provides resources for our schools,” Hewitt says. “Additionally, we welcome donations on our website throughout the year for our various funding priorities.”
For those who are currently unable to offer financial support, Hewitt says they can still help by following CEF on social media at @ChandlerEdFoundation, and by sharing the events and campaigns with their networks.
“Every contribution, in whatever form, helps us fuel excellence in education across the Chandler Unified School District,” Hewitt says.