Q: Who is JCSEF?
Q: Why a Foundation?
Q: How is the Foundation managed?
Q: Where does the Foundation money go?
Q: How is the money raised?
Q: Does the Foundation have an endowment?
Q: How does my gift benefit my school?
Q: What about United Way and Employer Matching Funds?
Q: Is my gift tax-deductible?
Q: Can I make a monthly donation?
Q: I’m a Jefferson County Schools Alumni, is there an association?
Q: How can I help?

Q: Who is JCSEF?
A: The Jefferson County Schools Education Foundation is an independent 501.c.3 nonprofit organization. We work closely with the Jefferson County Public School Board of Education to provide financial support for programs and projects which cannot be supported by regular funding sources.

Q: Why a Foundation?
A: We believe there will always be a gap between the tax dollars available to fund an adequate education and the dollars required to support an educationally excellent experience in this community. Community support has made the Foundation a critical element in raising private dollars to support the public schools, enhance the educational excellence and the strength the vitality of our community.

Q: How is the Foundation managed?
A: JCSEF is governed by a board of directors representing a broad spectrum of talent in the community. The board members are representative of parents, community members, and corporate supporters. Acting as advisors, Board members lead initiative creation, support fund-raising efforts and provide guidance concerning various activities.

Q: Where does the Foundation money go?
A: A group, comprised of representatives from JCSEF and JCPS, establish funding priorities.  The Foundation utilizes the money to award scholarships to students and to cover the expense of programs and projects.  

Q: How is the money raised?
A: The two major funding areas are our Annual Initiatives and Giving Opportunities. Our Annual Initiatives include Labor Day events, a Fresh Feast On The Farm Dinner, and the Annual Giving Campaign. The Giving Opportunities solicit support from the entire community through various fundraising vehicles. The Foundation also applies to foundations and civic groups for specific project funding.

Q: Does the Foundation have an endowment?
A:  The Foundation has built up a small endowment fund made up of the gifts of visionary early donors.  Eventually that fund will provide a predictable source of income for some of the program needs.

Q: How does my gift benefit my school?
A: JCSEF raises money for District-wide needs. Some programs may be initiated at only a single school, while others may benefit all of our schools. In other cases, the benefit is offered to a student without regard to which school they attended.

Q: What about United Way and Employer Matching Funds?
A: These are great ways of increasing the impact you can make. You can designate JCSEF on your United Way contribution, or ask your employer if they match gifts to non-profit organizations. 

Q: Is my gift tax-deductible?
A: Yes.

Q: Can I make a monthly donation?
A: Yes.

Q: I’m a Jefferson County Schools Alumni, is there an association?
A: Answer here.

Q: How can I help?
A:Click here to donate.  To volunteer, call 304-321-9876. Click here to become a Community Partner.