Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Geneva Academic Foundation (GAF)?

What is the relationship between GAF and the Geneva schools?

How is it determined what projects are funded?

What is the Geneva Academic Foundation (GAF)?

The Geneva Academic Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the educational experience of our children through the advancement of relationships, partnerships, membership and stewardship. GAF strives to connect students at all grade levels to new experiences, ideas, and challenges by funding technology, services, programs and equipment. “Our entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to service, and leadership provides a bridge to meet common objectives between the students, parents, community, administration, faculty, and businesses.

Founded in February, 1987 by a group of concerned citizens, GAF’s first objective was to finance computer labs in all the schools. The Geneva School Board had said it would take five years to accomplish this using District budget. In May of 1987, a reception was held to introduce the Foundation to the community and $40,500 was pledged to the Foundation. This commitment enabled the Board to obtain a loan for $125,000 so that computer equipment could be ordered and placed in the schools in time for the beginning of the 1987-1988 school years. The Foundation then proceeded to provide computers to each of the five schools in Geneva .

The success of GAF continues to grow each year, thanks to tireless efforts of board members. During the past twenty years since the establishment of the Geneva Academic Foundation over $895,000 has been raised and donated by GAF.

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What is the relationship between GAF and the Geneva schools?

GAF plays an important role in the Geneva Community. Through our Membership Program, various fundraising efforts, and community involvement we provide opportunities for local businesses, the community at large, and students to become involved in the educational experience within District 304. We work closely with the Board of Education, Administration, and Staff to ensure our goals and activities are consistent with the District's objectives.

Our success is based on four critical areas:"

- Relationships … with the Parents, Community at large, Business Community, District Administration,

School Board, Alumni, Teachers, Students

- Partnerships … with the District and other, similar organizations

- Membership … individuals donating time, talent, or resources to our mission

- Stewardship … philosophical as well as financial ownership of our mission

"We seek to provide a bridge between the Community, the District, and the Students -- in an effort to continue Geneva's Tradition of Excellence in educating our youth."

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What have we funded in the past?

click here to see what was Funded in 2007

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How is it determined what projects are funded?

Decisions are made by the Project Search Committee of GAF. This committee meets monthly (more during grant selection time). This committee reviews all applications, and based on merit and criteria are then recommended to the GAF Board. The Board then votes on awarding the grants. Grant applications are due in the Fall and grants are awarded in November at the Leadership Breakfast.

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How can I make a contribution?

As a contributor, you may choose to designate your donation to either our Current Project Fund or our Endowment Fund. There are several levels of giving you may choose from as well. Click here for a membership card. Once it is filled out, you can mail it to GAF, P.O. Box 44, Geneva, IL 60134.