In a thriving community, strong schools are the foundation of success. Religious and service organizations are uniquely positioned to make a lasting impact by partnering with  local elementary schools in Champaign Unit 4 or Urbana School District 116. Our Adopt-A-School initiative creates opportunities for your member to have meaningful engagement with a specific partner school, their teacher, staff, and students – creating a positive environment for learning and growing! 

If your organization is looking for a way to serve the community in a hands-on, relationship-driven way, might we recommend adopting a school? If it sounds overwhelming – let us assure you, that most partnerships start small, and are uniquely tailored to both the needs of the school and the specific ways each adopting organization desires to serve. All of which is considered when forming partnerships! 

Here are the first two ways we hope each partnership begins: 

1. Elevating and Encouraging Educators

Teachers play a crucial role in shaping young minds, so one of the simplest yet most powerful ways your organization can contribute is by lifting up and appreciating educators at your adopted school. This can be done through:

  • Handwritten notes of encouragement to remind teachers they are seen and valued.
  • Small treats or snacks left in the teachers’ lounge to brighten their day.
  • Periodic food events, such as a breakfast spread, coffee cart, or catered lunch to show appreciation.

These small gestures go a long way in boosting morale and reinforcing the idea that the community cares about its educators.

2. Connecting Classrooms to Resources and Opportunities

Beyond supporting educators, your organization can also serve as a network for teachers and students, connecting them with experiences and expertise that enrich learning. This could include:

  • Guest speakers from your congregation or group sharing knowledge about careers, hobbies, or life experiences that align with classroom learning.
  • Field trip opportunities— connecting teachers to various real-world learning experiences outside the classroom for their students can be invaluable to the teacher with little time on their hands to explore various options.
  • Hands-on expertise, such as teaching financial literacy, art, music, STEM, or other areas where your members – or their friends – have knowledge to share.

By becoming a trusted resource for the school, your organization helps bridge gaps and bring learning to life in new and exciting ways.

Three Key Benefits to Your Organization

  1. Direct and Immediate Community Impact – Your involvement makes a visible, meaningful difference in the lives of local teachers and students, strengthening the community you serve.
  2. Fulfillment of Your Mission – Whether your organization prioritizes service, education, or social responsibility, adopting a school aligns with core values and extends your reach in a purposeful way.
  3. Camaraderie and Connection – Working together to support a school fosters stronger bonds among your members, creating a shared sense of purpose and teamwork in making a difference.

Why This Partnership Matters

When churches and service organizations step up to support schools, the whole community benefits. A partnership with a local elementary school fosters connection, empathy, and a shared investment in the success of our children. It’s about building relationships that extend beyond a single event or donation—relationships that cultivate long-term support and positive change for our entire community.

One of our pilot program pairings is Meadowbrook Church’s partnership with Kenwood Elementary School. Outreach coordinator Kristin Morris and Principal Nadrozny are working with Kent Hollis and Cooper Frank from Meadowbrook to finish the year strong with their re-ignited partnership.  We can’t wait to see what is possible, when an organization commits to consistently uplifting teachers and enriching student experiences through intentional and continuous partnerships. Are your members ready to find out? 

Get Involved Today

If your church, service club, or community group is looking for a way to make a meaningful impact, adopting a school is a fantastic opportunity. CU Schools Foundation’s Adopt-A-School program is launching this fall, and we’d love to connect with you NOW to find the right fit.

Let’s work together to ensure that every teacher feels supported and every student has access to the resources and experiences that help them thrive. Reach out (etarr@cuschoolsfoundation) today to learn more!