Well-Schooled

The Broward Education Foundation is all about the ABCs.

You may not have heard about this nonprofit that raises awareness and money for Broward County Public Schools, but staff, volunteers and donors work tirelessly to expand students’ educational horizons. 

Its mission is succinct but powerful: “Broward Education Foundation mobilizes the extended community to increase advocacy and financial support to impact student achievement.”

The Fort Lauderdale group raises money for school supplies for Title I school students, scholarships for graduating seniors and programs that enhance education (including debate and scholastic chess) for pupils in pre-K through high school. 

The Broward Education Foundation, which was created in 1983 by a group of community activists, has grown significantly: In total, it has awarded $2.7 million in teacher grants, $15 million in school supplies and $15 million in scholarships. 

It has also established innovative programs for students and teachers, including the hands-on Garden Delights Program, which offers lessons in nutrition, botany and more through a seed-to-table curriculum centered on a garden where students grow and harvest food. 

These milestones touch the hearts of all who support the organization.

“We’re very proud that our generous supporters – donors, sponsors, corporations, business and community leaders, and volunteers – share our commitment to education and our community’s children,” says Pejay Ryan, director of marketing for the Broward Education Foundation. “I believe education is the cornerstone of a thriving and successful community.” 

The foundation has expanded its focus over the years. Recently, it sprang into action after the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, creating a GoFundMe account and establishing the official Stoneman Douglas Victims’ Fund.

The response was phenomenal, says Ryan: “Through the generosity of donors throughout the nation, we raised $10.5 million – 100 percent of which was distributed to victims’ families, survivors and those impacted on campus.”

But there’s still more to be done, and the group welcomes volunteers who can assist by working at the supply center, handling school supply drives, funding teacher grants, creating scholarships, serving on a committee – or even taking to social media to “help advocate for the population we have the pleasure of serving,” says Ryan.

“The opportunities to help are limitless.” O

For more information, call 754-321-2030 or visit browardedfoundation.org.