Student Research Institute Sponsorship

Dear Friend of CARES Fox Cities,
 
Imagine a community where every student has the resources and support to not only dream but also thrive. At CARES, we are committed to turning that vision into reality right here in the Fox Cities—and we need your help to do it. To ensure the success of this program, we are currently seeking a Presenting Sponsor.
 
Local statistics tell a compelling story: 76% of struggling students stay in our area after high school graduation, while 82% of those in advanced placement classes move away. Graduation rates for AASD students reveal more information: 68.8% of Black students, 75.4% of Hispanic students, 89.3% of White students, and 91.1% of Asian students graduate. This disparity speaks volumes about the support needed here at home to ensure that every student, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive in the Fox Cities right now. Their success as a youth will greatly impact their future as well as the future of our community. That's why CARES is dedicated to community-based advocacy and research for equity in our schools (https://www.caresfoxcities.com/).
One way to achieve this equity is by having students engage in our Student Research Institute.  This opportunity bridges the gap between students, teachers, and families to identify challenges, opportunities for change, and celebrate successes. Our Student Research Institute (SRI) is not just a program—it's a 12-day paid opportunity for BIPOC and multilingual youth to make impactful change. It's where they learn about Participatory Action Research on social-justice topics that matter to them. This unique program introduces participants to community leaders, nurtures their confidence, and equips them with the skills to lead with their own vision. Through SRI, composed of 4 facilitators and 16-20 AASD high school students per session, we embark on a journey of discovery and action that helps to shape the future of our student’s lives, our schools, and our greater community. 
 
This summer will be our second year of implementing SRI!  We are excited to engage in this work again, but there is still a need for donations to make this all happen.  We are currently seeking a Presenting Sponsor for this transformative initiative. With a sponsorship of $10,000-$20,000, you can make an indelible impact. Your generous contribution will be recognized across various platforms, including event announcements, our website, social media, and even on our T-shirts. Every dollar you give catalyzes the growth of a student eager to make a difference. Your support can design a better tomorrow for our community.
 
Our current fiscal sponsor, Open Collective, is in the process of dissolving so we have taken steps to secure another fiscal sponsor. Because of this adjustment, we are currently seeking a commitment to funding by May 31st with payment due in July at the start of the institute.
 
Thank you for considering this opportunity to transform lives and foster equity in education here in the Fox Cities. Please contact Mary Ann Weed at maryannweed@caresfoxcities.com for more information and for sponsorship steps.
 
Warm regards,
 
Mary Ann Weed (she/her)
Director of Philanthropy CARES Fox Cities