Edina Give and Go tells board it has distributed scholarships and unlocked extracurricular opportunities for district students
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Summary
Edina Give and Go leaders described partnerships with the district to fund extracurricular access, reported scholarship totals and attendance figures for recent fundraising events, and highlighted student involvement on the organization's board.
Leaders of Edina Give and Go told the Edina Public Schools Board on May 5 that the nonprofit provides financial assistance and logistical support so students can participate in academics, arts and athletics when families face financial barriers.
Stephanie Francis Jones, executive director of Edina Give and Go, said the organization seeks to “build an equitable and connected community” by funding access to enrichment opportunities for students in grades K–12 and working with social workers and school staff to distribute aid confidentially. “We help to ensure that every student in Edina Public Schools has a true opportunity to thrive, by leveling the playing field outside of the classroom,” she said.
Jones and Dr. Anne Marie Leland described the research connecting out-of-school enrichment with gains in achievement, opportunity and well-being and discussed the nonprofit’s recent activities: Edina Give and Go reports it has provided more than $1,600,000 in scholarships to nearly 3,000 students since becoming an independent 501(c)(3) 11 years ago and unlocked about 1,320 opportunities for students last year. The organization said it currently reaches roughly 30% of qualifying students; it estimates 1 in 5 district students qualify for help.
The group also reported recent fundraising and volunteer metrics: a gala that raised about $30,000 and a gear-swap event that drew 90 volunteers, accepted donations from more than 360 families, served more than 460 families and raised roughly $18,000.
Student board member Claire Damon, a sophomore, described the student ambassador council’s role advising the Give and Go board and listed student-led activities including a used-book sale that both supplied low-cost books to families and raised program funds.
Board members praised the partnership and asked whether Give and Go has considered expanding supports for children younger than kindergarten; Jones said the organization is exploring early-childhood supports in collaboration with district leaders and county programs but must ensure fundraising can sustain any expansion. No board action was taken; the presentation was informational.