The University City Foundation for Public Schools was founded in 1993 and uses the legal Doing Business As (DBA) title, EdUCate!
Our founders decided to raise funds for those “out of pocket” extras that the school district could not provide. The original volunteers included Deb Horwitz, MaryKay Hewitt, Drs. Bruce Robbins and Elaine Hanson, and others who went on to found the University City Community Association and who continue to volunteer tirelessly. They incorporated in 1993 and gained recognition from the IRS and State of California as a 501(c)3 Nonprofit Foundation (Federal Tax I.D.33-0539815).
The first meeting was a small “tea and cookie” event in a bank lobby. Back then, school foundations were not commonplace and tasting events weren’t available every weekend. But everyone knew good schools were key to a good neighborhood, and the idea of adding some private and business support to the schools’ budgets resonated deeply.
That first bank lobby reception evolved into “Taste of the Triangle” in the fall of 1995 with Mayor Susan Golding in attendance. Local restaurants and businesses continue to support the event, which is still our biggest fundraiser. VIP reception speakers have included State Assemblywoman Susan Davis, SD Symphony conductor Jung-Ho Pak, Padres pitcher Randy Jones, radio personality and author Richard Lederer, novelist Susan Vreeland, SDSU President Stephen Weber, and Qualcomm founder Irwin Jacobs. We have had magicians and celebrity chefs. “Taste” is fun, and being a VIP donor makes it even more enjoyable.
Other events have helped build community support for our fine schools:
- 2002-2006, Friendraiser showcased student work and performances
- Our 5K run brought families to the UCHS campus
- 2003, Cheryl Creagh introduced Honor A Teacher
- 2006, Elaine Hanson launched Dollar a Day
- 2009, Roj Fay helped us get grant funding from Las Patronas in 2009
- Since 2009, we have held an annual Oktoberfest at Standley Park
What ideas do YOU have for EdUCate!’s future? Contact our President at president@uc-educate.org