By Laura Fitzgerald

The Port Huron Schools Endowment Fund was established in 2010 with the Community Foundation and has been instrumental in advancing educational opportunities since its inception. Originally established with a generous $100,000 donation from a local family, the fund has grown to exceed $400,000. Over the years, nearly $200,000 has been distributed in grants to support a diverse array of programs across all Port Huron schools, making a significant impact on students’ educational journeys.

“Extracurricular and academic activities outside the core curriculum are essential for the growth, development, and success of young people. When a Destination Imagination team makes it to the regional championship, an artist becomes a state finalist, or a class of second graders want to plant and grow a garden, we have the ability to fill the gap between what is on hand and what is needed to push it over the finish line. These are not ‘extras’; they are opportunities to enhance the educational experience of students,” said Kim Dooley, Port Huron Schools Endowment Fund Board Chairperson.

The fund supported starting FIRST Lego Leagues at all district elementary schools, which provides youth a STEM learning and exploration at an early age. A different year the fund provided matching grants for Pay to Play support at all junior high and high schools.

One of the largest and longest-running programs to receive funding from the Port Huron Schools Fund is Port Huron Northern and Port Huron High School’s college access advisors. Each year, the endowment fund provides $5,000 grants for each high school to assist in the cost of the full-time position.

“The advisor acts as an additional support for students in all high school grade levels as they consider their post-graduation plans. The advisor provides resources and connections for not only students who wish to go to two- and four-year colleges and universities but also connects students to resources for options such as trade schools, the military, and workforce opportunities. This can be especially helpful for students who might be the first in their family to attend college or another post-secondary plan,” said Kim Dooley, Port Huron Schools Endowment Fund Board Chairperson.

“We no longer live in a world where classroom education is enough. Additional programs, activities, and services are vital to their overall academic, mental, and social development and ultimate success,” Dooley added.

Join Us at the Crosstown Showdown to Support the Endowment Fund

You can support the Port Huron Schools Endowment Fund by joining us at the Crosstown Showdown on September 27 at Memorial Stadium. All proceeds from the Crosstown Showdown Endzone Tailgate Party will go to the fund, ensuring continued support for these programs.

The tailgate party offers a perfect opportunity for parents, students, alumni, and community members to come together, enjoy a buffet, designated seating and catch the big game between Port Huron High School and Port Huron Northern High School football teams, which kicks off at 7 p.m. Event and ticket information here.

Your participation in this event not only promises a great time but also helps sustain and grow the Port Huron Schools Endowment Fund, ensuring that future Port Huron students continue to benefit from enriching educational opportunities for generations years to come. To learn more or to donate directly to the fund, visit the Port Huron Schools Endowment Fund