ABOUT US
The Petaluma Educational Foundation (PEF) was established in 1982.
Our Vision:
PEF creates impactful educational opportunities for all students in our community.
Our Mission:
We fund programs that promote critical thinking, creativity, student well-being, and lifelong learning.
PEF Grant and Scholarship programs enhance and enrich the academic experience of more than 12,000+ students annually in Petaluma’s 38 public, charter, and not-for-profit private schools. A total of $7,950,708 in financial support has been awarded through our programs since the Foundation was founded. PEF receives no public funding. The Foundation raises funds from individuals, corporations, and foundations. In addition, PEF manages Alphabet Soup Benefit Thrift Stores located in the heart of downtown Petaluma. All proceeds from Alphabet Soup support the mission of PEF in our community. Petaluma Educational Foundation is designated by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax-exempt, non-profit, charitable 501(c)(3) organization. Our Tax ID is #94-2847212.
Since 1983, PEF has granted more than $3,898,639 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 education for all Petaluma area students. This current academic year, PEF awarded 30 grants supporting Social-Emotional Learning and Technology Access and Devices totaling $132,454.
PEF is honored to manage 77 scholarship funds for donors who provide the Foundation with clear criteria for selecting recipients. Awards are presented to students planning to further their academic career at 2-year colleges, 4-year colleges, or vocational training programs. This year, in 2021, we awarded $237,559 to seniors graduating from all Petaluma area high schools, bringing the total to $4,052,069 awarded since 1990.
Programs
Grants for Schools
Scholarships for High School Graduates
Managed Funds
PEF manages over $5,149,214 (as of December 2020) in pool investment and endowed funds with clear directions as to how the funds will benefit the school(s) in Petaluma. We also manage component funds for school-related organizations and clubs. With funding for our schools uncertain, the role PEF plays is more important than ever.
Donate
- “Fund the Future” donations for PEF Impact Grants
- Annual and Event Partnerships
- Endowments to establish educational programs or scholarships
Be Involved/Volunteer/Donate
Alphabet Soup Thrift Stores: volunteer/shop/donate
Friends of PEF: all volunteers welcome!
PEF’s Annual Partners for Education
Positively impacting our teachers and students every day of the year!