Ford Friendraisers

A Friendraiser is an event that brings together the schools and the community to learn more about GEAR UP, get people excited/involved (e.g. sign up some guest speakers, mentors, or volunteers) and introduce the concept of developing a college-going culture.  For example, North Douglas hosted an end-of-year celebration with middle and high school students, parents and community members that included a lunch BBQ and a prize raffle for students and parents who had participated in GEAR UP activities during  the year.

 The other very important piece is for The Ford Family Foundation to connect with the communities by sending representative to the event to promote going to college.  These Ford Scholar Alumni and Ford Institute Alumni have attended college with Ford’s help and are excited to give back, in many cases to their own community.  The Ford Family Foundation will do all of the legwork to invite their “alumni” to your event – no need to worry about that part!  The Ford Family Foundation will provide a one-time donation of $500/cluster to cover the cost of this event to the Ford GEAR UP schools. (Federal schools - consider including a similar event as part of your yearly budgeting and planning!)

Be thinking about a possible GEAR UP kickoff at the beginning of the year or during an event that you already draw a crowd.  Homecoming?  Before a game?  Open House?

Click here for more more information and a form to submit to Susie and/or Ashley.