Endowment Partner Spotlight: Education Foundation of Indian River County

The Education Foundation of Indian River County sponsors STEP (Summer Transition Enrichment Program) into Kindergarten, a free four-week summer experience for 4 and 5 year old children. The primary goal of this program is to prepare children for Kindergarten success by providing pre-reading, math and social/emotional skills. In 2019, just 24% of children were observed to work and play well with others, compared to 73% of children after they went through STEP into Kindergarten. In terms of academic data, indicators such as number recognition and beginning sound recognition also increased after children completed the program. Education Foundation currently serves approximately 30% of the entering Title I population of Kindergarteners.

"Between June 7 and July 2, STEP into Kindergarten helped prepare 230 students to start kindergarten in the fall. It was a record summer." - Douglas Herron, Education Foundation Executive Director

Education Foundation is also a part of our Endowment Partners Program (EPP).  The purpose of the EPP is to help local charities plan for their long-term sustainability by growing a permanent endowment fund. During a 12-month program, participants learn about endowments, planned giving, investment management and marketing solutions that inspire loyal donors to make planned gifts from their estates. The program is coordinated by IRCF team member Yamilet Cendejas.

To learn how to give outright contributions today or bequests and other planned gifts for future support, please see “Planned Giving: Leave a Legacy” under our “Giving” section or go to the Education Foundation website.