Chelsea Education Foundation (CEF) and the Educational Foundation of Dexter (EFD) will go head to head to raise money for educational grants in their respective communities. The fundraising kicks off Oct. 1, 2021, and will culminate at halftime during the Oct. 22 Chelsea vs. Dexter football game at Al Ritt Stadium in Dexter.
In 2019, the friendly "Rivalry Match" raised over $10,000 for the 501(c)3 non-profits. It was a close match, with the EFD walking away with bragging rights after raising $5,044.
"The best part about the Rivalry Match collaboration is that the students are the true winners. This fundraiser will help fund educational programs that will make an impact in every school in both districts," said Heidi Patel, President of the Educational Foundation of Dexter.
The missions of the CEF and EFD are similar; both enhance students' educational experiences by financing projects beyond the resources of the district, including teacher-authored grants, building-level grants, and district initiatives. CEF also provides scholarships to district graduates.
"The educational foundations are support systems to the schools and teachers, providing them with additional tools and funding to help students reach their fullest potential," said Lynn Fox, President of Chelsea Education Foundation.
Since 1999, CEF has impacted over 46,000 students through efforts and activities in the Chelsea School District. Over 1-million dollars have been donated to fund programs like #whyyoumatter, CHS Link Crew, 6th-grade camp, 5th-grade ukuleles, classroom leveled books, preschool water tables, and scholarships to students showcasing outstanding performance.
Since 1985, the EFD has awarded over $950,000 in teacher grants that support students from Pre-K to 12th Grade in the Dexter Community Schools. Previously funded grants include BookPals for 2nd Grade, 3-D printers for Mill Creek, Adapted Music for Students with Special Needs, and support for Dread Strong Summer Camp.
The education foundations also serve as links between school, business and the community. Community partners, Art Moehn Chevrolet Buick of Chelsea, Stieper & Brust Orthodontics, Culver's of Chelsea, LaFontaine Chevrolet of Dexter, and Chelsea State Bank have helped support the fundraiser with a total of over $4,000 in sponsorships!
The Sun Times News is teaming up with both educational foundations to help fans show their school spirit in a "Rivalry Match Section". In the Oct. 20 newspaper, fans can support this friendly rivalry by placing an ad to cheer on a team, a player, or the Education Foundations! The Sun Times News is donating 50% of ad proceeds to the respective Education Foundation to support educational grants.
"Together, we can make it a win-win for everyone," said Fox.
To make a donation or learn more about the foundations, visit their websites: www.chelseaeducationfoundation.org or www.efdexter.org.