Our Strategic Pillars
Through our foundational work we have developed a five year vision to embody, embrace, and carry our values forward. Learn more by downloading our Strategic Pilllars Sheet.
Our Mission
In partnership with Tacoma Public Schools and the community, we support the whole child by providing access to extraordinary opportunities.
Our Vision
Create environments where each Tacoma Public School student is empowered to realize their full potential in school and in life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why was the Tacoma Education Dream Fund founded?
The Tacoma Education Dream Fund was founded to fund experiences beyond the classroom throughout the Tacoma Public School District. While “extra” to the academic experience, these supplemental experiences and opportunities can mean the difference between reaching the student’s full potential in school and in life.
Why does TPS need a foundation?
Public schools do extraordinary work with the resources they have. But a school district’s core budget cannot fund every opportunity that can enrich a student’s education.
A foundation creates another bridge to the community.
The Tacoma Education Dream Fund brings together Tacoma Public Schools, students, educators, businesses, nonprofits, families, alumni, and donors to expand what is possible for students.
Tacoma Public Schools knows what students need.
Educators and school leaders see firsthand where additional opportunities can make a difference.
The community has resources to share.
Businesses, foundations, families, alumni, and community members want to invest in Tacoma’s young people.
The Dream Fund helps connect the two.
We provide the nonprofit infrastructure, fundraising, financial stewardship, donor management, and community relationships that help philanthropic resources move toward opportunities for students.
This partnership allows Tacoma Public Schools departments to focus on serving students while the Dream Fund helps build and manage the philanthropic support that can make more opportunities possible.
It’s not about replacing what already exists. It’s about building what could exist next.
How will funding be distributed for the Tacoma Public School District?
The Tacoma Education Dream Fund is young. We are still building our capacity, donor community, and the systems that will allow us to grow thoughtfully and sustainably.
Today, we work closely with Tacoma Public Schools to support district priorities and respond to emerging opportunities as they arise. As our capacity grows, we will continue developing the processes and partnerships needed to connect philanthropic resources with student needs and opportunities across the district.
At this time, we do not have an open application process for schools, departments, students, or community organizations to apply for funding. As the Dream Fund grows, our approach to distributing funding will continue to evolve alongside our capacity, resources, and understanding of where philanthropic support can make the greatest difference.
How can I get involved with the Tacoma Education Dream Fund?
Opportunities to get involved include, donating, joining the board or becoming a volunteer. For organizations, we are always interested in community partnerships to help out our students. Please contact us for more information.
How is the Tacoma Education Dream Fund different than Graduate Tacoma (Foundation for Tacoma Students)?
Graduate Tacoma is focused on “fostering meaningful change through our advocacy initiatives” and policy reform. Tacoma Education Dream Fund is focused on fundraising and providing funding to the Tacoma Public School District. Our mission with these funds is to empower students and educators with experiences and opportunities beyond the classroom.
