Children, Youth & Education
In 1999 The Foundation hired a program officer to research the needs and make recommendations for funding education-related programs and grant opportunities in Shasta, Siskiyou, Trinity and Modoc counties. The board determined that this area of giving was a high priority and that the goal would be to make a long-term difference in education in the North State. The funding of several programs and projects arose from this commitment.
Initially, grants were made for programs targeting school-age children and youth. After several years of grantmaking in the area of education, it became clear to the board and staff that school performance and readiness is affected by what happens in the preschool years. The board also recognized that our communities have needs and aspirations that may not directly involve education, but have an impact on the development and education of children and youth. Staff has now been given the charge to address the needs surrounding all ages of children and youth. Future grants in the area of Children, Youth & Education will demonstrate a more comprehensive and integrated response to the issues of children of all ages.