The Cobb Schools Foundation not only provides funds for grants, scholarships, and other programs, it coordinates a host of activities important to the county’s public schools.
The non-profit organization is headed up by executive director Sheri Brante, who runs the daily business of the foundation, which was established in 1999. A board made up of community leaders lends direction and support.
The organization is the oldest schools foundation of its kind in the state, and boasts a number of programs in support of the students, teachers, and administrators of the Cobb County School System.
Brante, who started with the foundation in 2004, is fully engaged in efforts at making Cobb schools and our community an attractive place to live and learn. She believes momentum is building for even better years ahead.
Recently completed was a strategic plan that identified the need for a three-year capital campaign. Brante said she wants to make the foundation, “More relevant and visible to the community,” and is teaming up with fundraising consultants Sinclair, Townes & Company to make that happen.
Core programs include funding after school programs with scholarships based on need, teacher grant programs, and recognizing the achievements of students, teachers, and other employees of the school system using funds raised by the foundation. And how are these funds raised?
With the school year just beginning, one fundraiser Brante is preparing for is the annual “Tee off for Cobb schools” golf event to be held at Brookstone Country Club in Acworth on Sept. 9. The tournament has raised tens of thousands of dollars for the foundation in years past. Brante expects this to be another sell-out.
There seems to be no limit to the ways people can help, and Brante isn’t short on ideas. She encourages businesses and others to establish scholarships for seniors, and the foundation works with those who want to give by providing administrative and other support.
Individuals or groups can sponsor a student or class in “Project 2400,” an SAT preparation class for two dozen juniors. Each student who participates in the 10-week program takes the May SAT, which can enhance Cobb’s overall scores on the test.
What other fundraisers help the foundation? One effort is called “Give me 5 for education.” This campaign will take place in October and asks those involved in the schools to give five dollars to help fund the many worthy programs run by the schools foundation.
Another is the “Leaders and Legends” ball and fundraiser to be held in February 2014. The inaugural event last February recognized six Cobb school system alumni who have achieved success in their careers, from entertainment, to sports, to business.
The foundation is also the fiscal agent for 30 other funds run at the local level. Brante says, “Local schools know how to meet local needs.” A sentiment many would agree with.
If you are interested in volunteering or contributing, contact the foundation at www.cobbschoolsfoundation.org.
Craig Allen has lived in Cobb County for 10 years. Reach him at alle3257@bellsouth.net
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