Can you believe an entire year has passed? As I enter my final term as President of the Lynwood Partners Educational Foundation (LPEF), I'm thrilled to reflect on what we have accomplished together and share our plans for the 2023 – 2024 fiscal year.
I remember entering last year with the goal to elevate and scale the foundation, our organization, increase community awareness, and establish greater resources and opportunities for Lynwood Unified School District (LUSD) students. I am pleased to say that, together, we have succeeded in these endeavors. I extend my gratitude to you for your invaluable contributions to the following achievements in the past year:
Awarded nearly $90,000 in college scholarships to Lynwood Unified graduates pursuing higher education at 2 or 4-year colleges/universities or trade schools. Three times more than the previous year.
Provided grants totaling close to $15,000 to 23 Lynwood Unified teachers and counselors, enhancing the learning environments for our students.
Successfully piloted the School Grant Program, allocating nearly $10,000 for school-wide projects at Firebaugh High School, Cesar Chavez Middle School, and Wilson Elementary Schools.
Coordinated the second annual The Lynwood 5K/10K Run, attracting over 500 participants and raising $50,000 for our scholarship fund.
Hired our second Foundation employee.
These are wonderful milestones we reached together. Now, looking ahead to the upcoming school year, our goals include:
Launching the Lynwood Alumni Center in partnership with LUSD and the Lynwood Alumni Association.
Hosting the inaugural Lynwood Alumni Awards Gala on September 28, 2023.
Expanding college scholarships and financial aid for graduating seniors and recent graduates.
Allocating over $25,000 in grants to LUSD teachers and principals to enhance learning environments.
Maintaining our commitment to support the Lynwood Unified Food Pantry and Community Resource Center, which continues to provide crucial assistance to our most vulnerable families.
Coordinating the third annual The Lynwood 5K/10K Run on May 18, 2023.
Developing a strategic plan to amplify and scale the Foundation's impact.
I’m proud that the Foundation has raised over $1,000,000 since 2015. As we move into a new year, I look forward to collaborating with the Board and Executive Director Elsa Chagolla to sustain our commitment to public schools in Lynwood and to continue our positive impact in the community. Together, let's continue shaping a brighter future for Lynwood students.
