The following information was provided by the Watertown Community Foundation:
The Watertown Community Foundation and the Watertown Educational Foundation joined forces and cemented their two-year school grant partnership with a merger of the organizations in February 2018.
Together, they combine over forty years of fundraising and grant making to the Watertown Public Schools. This official unification provides the Watertown school community a consolidated source of support for innovative educational programs and activities. The merged organization will continue to be known as the Watertown Community Foundation and the President of the Watertown Educational Foundation, Elaina Griffith, joined the board of the Watertown Community Foundation.
“For the past two years, the Community Foundation and the Educational Foundation have run a combined school grants program. This gave applicants a larger pool of grant funds than either organization offered separately together in one, simplified grant application process. Together we’ve donated $70,000 to support Watertown students over the last two years and formalizing this partnership will ensure this vital work continues,” said David Siegel, Watertown Community Foundation Co-President.
Elaina Griffith added, “I’m so pleased The Education Foundation, now falling under the umbrella of the Watertown Community Foundation, will not have to alter its mission or contributions to Watertown Public Schools, and rather, will continue to provide our educators with grant monies raised through fundraising which enhance their classrooms and our students’ learning experiences. As I see it, it’s a win-win, and I look forward to a seamless transition over the coming months.”
Both organizations have deep roots in the Watertown Public Schools. The board of the Watertown Community Foundation includes graduates of the High School, a former School Committee chair, a former WPS teacher, and parents of WPS students.
The Watertown Community Foundation,a public, 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, works to build and sustain a vibrant, close-knit community in Watertown – now, and for future generations. To accomplish this, WCF raises funds from individuals, families, businesses, and foundations; awards grants to non-profits and community projects; and builds networks of donors, grantees, program participants, and stakeholders.
For additional information, visit WCF’s website: www.watertownfoundation.org