Open Window (theopenwindowsolution.com) CEO Wendy Van recently led training workshops at the National Association of Education Foundations conference (NAEF) in Knoxville, Tennessee, equipping K-12 education foundation leaders with essential communication strategies to advocate for philanthropic support in public education.
Public schools often face the misconception that tax dollars cover all students’ needs. In reality, education foundations play a crucial role in bridging funding gaps—supporting students through enhanced learning experiences, career academies, scholarships and more to help students reach their full potential, but without strong storytelling and clear messaging, these needs could go unmet.
The current swirl of uncertainty surrounding federal funding for local school districts raises significant concerns. Should federal funding be reduced, philanthropy will become even more essential in ensuring students receive the educational opportunities they deserve.
Open Window’s workshops focused on helping over 100 education foundation leaders craft compelling, data-informed cases for support and tell their stories. Participants learned to effectively communicate the pressing needs of public schools and the transformative role of philanthropy. The sessions also emphasized the importance of deep collaboration between school districts and education foundations.
“Education foundations are essential partners in creating innovative learning opportunities that tax dollars simply don’t cover,” said Wendy Van, founder of Open Window. “By equipping foundation and school leaders with the tools to tell their stories effectively, we empower them to inspire greater philanthropic investment in public education.”
From funding classroom grants to providing mentorship programs and career academies, education foundations are vital in shaping the future of students. Open Window remains committed to supporting these organizations in their mission to enhance learning and educational equity through philanthropy.
For more information about Open Window and its communications training services, visit theopenwindowsolution.com or contact Wendy Van at (402) 540-6906.