One of the primary hurdles facing employers, local organizations, and perhaps, most unfortunately, local schools is budgetary restrictions. One local non-profit located on Signal Mountain, however, is working diligently to combat the effects of financial restraints with support from its community and supportive donors.
The Mountain Education Foundation was established in 1991 with a focus on improving public schools and enhancing educational and developmental opportunities for students in the Signal Mountain community. "I am constantly amazed by the donors who don't have a direct connection to our schools, but who are so community-minded. That has to be my favorite part–being able to rub shoulders with people who donate money and time who have a common vision and rally behind our kids," MEF Executive Director Hilarie Robison told us.
Reaching a milestone most non-profits only dream of achieving, the Mountain Education Foundation has achieved a lofty endowment goal and takes an interest only draw which will cover all of the operating costs for the organization, which means that every penny donated goes directly to Signal Mountain schools. Core events for MEF include the annual MEF Golf Tournament, Celebration for Education Fundraiser, and Dash & Bash Community Block Party & Fun Run.
When asked what lies on the horizon for MEF, with heartfelt enthusiasm, Hilarie replied, "We held community listening sessions, strategy sessions, and broadened our focus and asked, ‘What do our youth need?’ Reaching this exciting milestone has opened up so many more ways that we can assist by providing resources that focus on the whole child, not just in the school." This mission is clearly supported by a community who prioritizes intentional action over lip service. Because of this, we have no doubt that MEF’s trajectory for success is exponential under Hilarie’s leadership.
This feature is provided courtesy of the team at Method Medspa. To learn more or to get involved with The Mountain Education Foundation, please visit: www.meftoday.org.