Ashley Lukang, founder of a local nonprofit partnered with Chesapeake Charities, described her program that raises small and large donations to fund teacher requests. Lukang said the nonprofit, active for about five years, has put over $25,000 into classrooms and recently raised more than $6,000 after being added to the school system website. She outlined a simple application process (teachers submit requests via a Google form and typically hear back within 30 days), sponsorship tiers including a $200 'named grant' option, and examples of funded items ranging from $20 to $5,000.

Lukang explained Chesapeake Charities serves as the fiscal sponsor, handling tax receipts and accounting; donors receive formal receipts for contributions over $250. Board members praised the program and discussed ways to publicize opportunities to teachers and families, while staff offered to connect Lukang to the appropriate administrators and principals for outreach.

Lukang said partnerships and sponsors have included the Jacob Sloan Foundation, the Mockingbird Foundation (music grant), Amethyst and Opal, and local businesses. She described plans to expand monthly grant awards and said she will continue to update the nonprofit's page and seek community partners.