In 1982, a group of local citizens and educators came together to support public education. This became increasingly important as economic challenges resulted in budget cuts for Cedar Rapids public schools. By 1984, the Cedar Rapids Community Schools Foundation was established and led by volunteers from the community.
They began fundraising for underfunded programs and projects, and in the first year of operation, the Foundation had secured $7,390 in assets.
Today the Foundation is proud to hold over $2M in assets that support public education in Cedar Rapids schools.
Our Mission
The mission of the foundation is to provide financial support to and promote excellence in Cedar Rapids Public Schools. Through the funding of projects and programs the foundation works to enhance the educational experience of students in the public schools.
Our Vision
To be recognized as the District’s key charitable-giving organization for public school education. And to continue providing broad and equitable opportunities for students and staff.
Our Impact
The Foundation improves Cedar Rapids public schools by funding opportunities. For students, this means access to new learning materials and activities. For staff, this includes professional development.
Invest
Our Promise
At CRCSF, we are committed to transparent and ethical operations. To ensure accountability, we look to national nonprofit monitoring groups, which include guidelines from GuideStar and Charity Navigator.
The Foundation has achieved GuideStar’s Platinum Seal of Transparency and 3 stars (out of 4) from Charity Navigator. These ratings are a testament to our honest, responsible stewardship of funds. It’s essential that gifts are used effectively and as intended to support our students and staff in Cedar Rapids Public Schools.
By upholding these values, we continue to build trust for all stakeholders and within our community. We believe it’s the least we can do to show that CRCSF is an organization worthy of your support.
Board and Staff
“On behalf of the Cedar Rapids Community Schools Foundation Board of Trustees and Staff, thank you for your generosity in support of our mission. Through this incredible community support, we have been able to provide financial support and promoting educational excellence through initiatives that further opportunities for students and staff across the district for more than 40 years. Examples of this impact include opportunities for teachers to further their professional development, equipment and materials to support participation in extracurriculars for all students, and administering donor scholarships that provide further educational opportunities for youth in our community. We invite you to explore our website to learn about the many ways your generosity can make an impact. Thank you for being a difference maker in the lives of educators and our youth.”
Lori Weih, Chair
Board of Trustees
Lori Weih
Landis Wiley
Claudia Lindeman
Paly Afridi
Ann Balvanz
Jodi Booth
Scott Drzycimski
Emma Grantham
Chris Gulker
Aaron Loan
Sara McBride
Katie Mohasci
Kristin Pardubsky J.D.
Daniel Pledge-Johnson
Lindsay Schumacher
Emeritus
Sue Pence
Robert Reitz
Ex-Officio
Dr. Tawana Grover
Karen A. Swanson, CFRE
Patti Lucas
History
The Cedar Rapids Community Schools Foundation was established in 1982. A group of local residents and educators committed to supporting public education led the initiative. This commitment has remained for more than 40 years, and we continue to work in support of public education in Cedar Rapids.
In 1984, the IRS awarded the organization 509 (a)(1) foundation status and 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. That means the Foundation operates separately from the district and does not receive any public funding. We rely on the generosity of private donors and corporations who believe in our schools and the potential of our students.
Today, the Foundation is governed by a board of trustees, composed of 15 members.
Annual Reports
The Foundation prides itself on responsible fund management. Our processes reflect high standards, ensuring donations are used fairly and as intended.
