HOT SPRINGS – The First Interstate Fall River Area Foundation has for many years been a source of funding for dozens of non-profit organizations across the county. At a meeting last week, the foundation’s board once again selected its annual grant winners where nearly $30,000 will be shared by nine local groups.
In addition to determining these recipients, the board also discussed a new direction and new name.
Moving forward, the organization will be known publicly as the Fall River Community Foundation (FRCF) and begin putting more of an emphasis on providing matching funds for larger community projects.
This year, the FRCF has identified the Hot Springs School District’s existing campaign to generate funds to expand its preschool program as a worthy endeavor to support.
Despite not receiving state aid to fund the free preschool program, the district has been setting aside their own funds to offer one section of preschool for up to 18 students. By raising approximately $60,000 from the community, Superintendent Dr. Kyley Cumbow said the district plans to hire a new full-time preschool teacher which will open up a second classroom – and thus doubling the size of its free preschool to around 36 students – to prevent turning away any parents who would like their children in public preschool.
To help do so, the FRCF is offering up to $15,000 as matching funds to support this campaign, which would ultimately generate $30,000 to cover half the total costs, if another $15,000 can be raised through other local funding sources.
“The Hot Springs School District (HSSD) has long recognized and prioritized the importance of early childhood education through its preschool program—an initiative that sets it apart from many other districts across the state,” stated Superintendent Dr. Cumbow.
“Because preschool is not statefunded in South Dakota, not all districts are able to offer such opportunities to their communities. HSSD remains committed not only to continuing this investment in our youngest learners but also to expanding access so that all families with 3- and 4-year-old children who are interested in preschool have the opportunity to participate,” Dr. Cumbow added. “This initiative benefits both the district and its families. Research consistently highlights the lasting positive impact of early childhood education, including improved academic performance, increased social skills, and a higher likelihood of high school graduation.” Donations to the Preschool Fundraising Campaign can be mailed or brought to the school district’s central office at 1747 Lincoln Avenue. Donations towards this matching grant can also be dropped off at First Interstate Bank to benefit the Preschool Funding Program.
Financial Planner Barb Miller, who is also a member of the FRCF Board of Directors, stated that donors should contact their financial advisor to see if they are able to use this donation as a Qualified Charitable Distribution from an IRA.