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 education.
Mission
Every child has a dream. Petaluma Educational Foundation creates community partnerships to fulfill these dreams. PEF Grant and Scholarships programs enhance and enrich the academic experience of more than 13,000 students in Petaluma’s 38 public, charter, and not-for-profit private schools.
We believe in them. We empower them. Together, 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 Benefit Thrift Stores (Alphabet Soup Clothing Boutique & Alphabet Soup @ Home Store) 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, charirable 501(c)(3) organization. Our Tax ID is #94-2847212
Programs
Grants for Schools
Since 1983, PEF has given $3,355,568 to teachers, administrators and parents to fund projects not covered in the school budget. The purpose of our annual Impact Grant Program is to reward innovative academic
programs and foster excellence in education benefiting all Petaluma area students.
Scholarships for High School Graduates
The Petaluma Educational Foundation is honored to manage 66 Scholarship funds for donors who provide the Foundation with clear criteria for selecting recipients. This year, PEF is proud to present a total of 315 awards to 227 students in the amount of $207,350 to seniors graduating from all seven Petaluma high schools. This, combined with our previous financial awards, brings the cumulative total to $3,339,535 awarded since the program started in 1990.
Managed Funds
PEF manages over $4,304,310 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
Have Fun and Make a Difference
The Bash (September 8, 2018)
PEF Giants Night (April 6, 2018)
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!