April 2025 District 196 Foundation Meeting Recap
Date: April 8th, 2025
Attendees: 14 members
Welcome and Introduction:
The District 196 Foundation Board convened for its April meeting online. Chair of the board, Hue Nguyen led the meeting to review budget updates, fundraising events and requests, and exciting new initiatives.
Financial Update:
Treasurer Sarah Jackson reviewed the balance sheet for March 31st, explaining the income and expenses. She explained that although the income is currently below the annual target, this is not of large concern because essential program funds have already been fulfilled. Additionally, donor contributions and general expenses were reviewed, and the board discussed several strategies to improve financial performance moving forward into the second half of the year.
Fundraising efforts:
The board discussed the outcomes of the silent auction that took place in February. Various members of the board shared ideas on how to improve the auction in the future, including planning earlier and shifting the event to a different season. In addition, the board discussed the upcoming Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week, planning for how to honor educators and staff through coordinated events. The board also discussed the organization of the School Supply Drive, with suggestions to align the timing with local summer events to maximize community engagement. Finally, a new fundraising idea of Holiday Lights for Hunger was introduced but was not pursued after board discussion.
Funding Requests and Review Process:
The board received one request from a summer language program, asking for funding to buy T-shirts. While the initiative was viewed positively by the board members, it was agreed that the request was in need of further refinement in order to align with the Foundation’s mission. An appeal for more information was sent to the program, and the topic will be revisited after it is received. After this, the board reviewed strategies for handling future funding requests, coming to an agreement to simplify the process by removing the formal rubric, and replacing it with a more accessible summary.
Marketing and Communications:
Efforts to fundraise via newsletters were reported to be progressing and on track. The board also brainstormed new methods for ensuring the website reflects the board efficiently and for increasing social media presence by enhancing content and expanding to new platforms. An idea to participate in local parades was also proposed as a way to increase the board’s visibility. No conclusion was reached and a plan to revisit the topic at a later date was established.
Adjournment:
The meeting was adjourned with a set of clear goals and plans, including several events corresponding with the ending of this school year and the beginning of the next. Overall, the meeting concluded with enthusiasm as the Foundation remains committed to upholding its mission and supporting students across the district.