ASHLAND, Ore. — The Ashland Schools Foundation has officially kicked off its 2025 Annual Fund Drive, setting an ambitious goal of raising $125,000 this April. This represents an increase from the previous year’s target of $100,000, reflecting the growing need for funding to support Ashland’s public schools.
Erica Thompson, Executive Director of the Ashland Schools Foundation, explained that the annual campaign is a critical fundraising effort. “This is a fundraiser we do every year during the month of April, where we try to raise the majority of the funds we’ll raise for the year in one concentrated month,” Thompson said.
The foundation is employing a multi-faceted outreach strategy to engage the community, including posters, flyers, postcards sent to every Ashland household, and a targeted online media campaign. These efforts aim to involve local residents and rally support for the district’s educational needs.
Thompson emphasized that the foundation’s primary focus is to serve the Ashland School District, with which it maintains close communication. “We exist solely to serve the Ashland Public School District, and we remain in constant communication with them,” she noted.
The funds raised during the drive will be allocated to grants for educational programs, classroom supplies, and other vital resources. This funding is especially important as the district faces ongoing budget cuts. While the specific needs for the upcoming school year remain uncertain, Thompson assured the community that the foundation’s priority is clear: “Our priority… is the students. We want to make sure they feel supported and have everything they need to thrive.”
In addition to financial contributions, the foundation is also encouraging community members to volunteer at outreach events held at the Ashland Food Co-op. During these events, volunteers can share a free meal, enjoy beverages, and participate in writing letters and making phone calls to encourage additional support for the cause.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding public education funding, Thompson expressed optimism about the foundation’s prospects. “I just feel really lucky to be in Ashland… and fortunate for the support of the community,” she said.
The Ashland Schools Foundation’s Annual Fund Drive is not just about raising money; it is about fostering a strong sense of community and ensuring that local students have the resources they need to succeed, even in the face of financial challenges. As the month progresses, the foundation hopes that Ashland residents will continue to demonstrate their support for public education.