About the Nonprofit
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History: In 1982, a group of teachers, business leaders and community activists in Petaluma convened to develop funding solutions for area schools in response to major budget deficits throughout the California school system. The outcome was the creation of the Petaluma Educational Foundation(PEF), a privately funded, non-profit organization whose primary goal is to raise money in the community to benefit children. Since the Foundation was founded, PEF has awarded $8,500,000 in financial support to schools and students through our programs.
Mission: Every child has a dream. PEF creates community partnerships to fulfill these dream. PEF Grant and Scholarship programs enhance and enrich the academic experiene of more than 13,000 students in Petaluma's 38 public, charter and not-for-profit private schools. We believe in them. We empower. We invest in their future.
Funding: PEF receives no public funding. The Foundation raises funds from individuals, corporations and foundations. In Addition, PEF manages Alphabet Soup Thrift Stores with two location in downtown Petaluma. All proceeds from the thrift stores benefit the mission of PEF. The Petaluma Educational Foundation is designated by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax exempt, non-profit, charitable 501(c)(3) organization.
Grants for Schools: Since 1983, PEF has granted more than $4,200,00 to teachers, administrators and parents to fund projects not covered in the school budget. The purpose of our grant program is to reward innovative academic programs and foster excellence in educational for all Petaluma area students.
Scholarships for High School Graduates: PEF is honored to manage 83 Scholarship Progams for donors who provide the Foundation with clear criteria for selecting recipients. In 2022, we awarded $262,000 to 255 seniors graduating from all seven Petaluma high schools, bringing the total to $4,500,000 awarded since 1990.
Managed Funds: PEF manages over $4,838,386 in component and endowed funds with clear directions as to how the funds will benefit the schools in Petaluma.We also manage component funds for school-related organizations and clubs.
