MAFE seeks community donations, sets $50,000 fall fund-drive goal

Mara Winky, a member of MAFE's board, urged the Mahtomedi Public School District board on Monday to help promote the organization’s fall fund drive and described how prior donations have funded classroom grants, student enrichment and operating support for the Angel Fund.

MAFE, which Winky described as supporting Mahtomedi schools through classroom grants, student scholarships and capital gifts, has set a goal "to raise a little over $50,000 this year," she said. Winky told the board that employees’ payroll deductions and community gifts have generated more than $8,000 so far and that donors can direct gifts to specific programs via a QR code handed out after the presentation.

Why it matters: MAFE grants were cited as helping teachers purchase classroom materials and supporting programs such as the Angel Fund, which provides essentials for families in need and supports weekend food programs and care closets. Board members pressed the board to consider matching MAFE’s internal goal of 100% board participation in giving to increase community fundraising credibility when soliciting outside donors.

Winky gave examples of typical gift impacts — $50 for mental wellness resources, $100 for student enrichment, $250 for professional development and $500 for larger classroom grants — and explained that donors can choose destinations for their contributions. The presentation noted that MAFE also provides occasional capital support for district initiatives such as playground equipment and reading materials.

Board response and next steps: Board members thanked MAFE for the presentation and several urged colleagues to participate at the same level as MAFE's board. MAFE’s executive director, Nora Slavic, attended the meeting. Winky left informational flyers and a QR code for board members and community attendees to make directed gifts.