The Foundation’s History
In 1997, a group of community leaders and Lake Forest Administrators was called together to brainstorm ideas for generating additional income for the district. Through the years, ideas evolved, and group members changed. However, most members were involved in the successful effort to secure funding through the passing of a referendum; some of these individuals were engaged as members of school improvement teams and as members of Citizens for Lake Forest.
Citizens for Lake Forest is a “…grass roots organization whose purpose is strengthening communication, building trust and fostering change.” Grass root organizations are pollical and social forces. Such organizations have become an increasingly important influence in public education with school funding and quality of education as focal points.
In addition to holding forums, workshops and educational programs, Citizens for Lake Forest established the Lake Forest Community Education Foundation in 2003. The Foundation is incorporated as a 501C3 non-profit community-based organization with the purpose of improving school achievement in the Lake Forest School District. This type of organization is becoming increasingly prevalent throughout the United States, with support from organizations like the Network for Public Education.
Shortly after the Foundation was formed, an endowment was established with a $10,000 contribution from the Lake Forest High School Athletic Boosters. The endowment ensures funds are available in perpetuity to stimulate educational enrichment and initiatives in the classroom.
The Community Foundation sponsors fundraising events to generate income to build the endowment and to award grants that are given out annually. The fund also receives substantial contributions through the generosity of private donations from the community and District employees.
Our goal is to grow the endowment for the expansion of classroom curriculums and to advance the quality of education for all students in the Lake Forest School District.