Your Gift Changes Classrooms.
Your Impact Lasts for Years.
Your donation supports programs that give back to Shelby County’s teachers and students through scholarships, grants, and special recognitions like Teacher of the Year. Every gift helps strengthen local schools and student success.
$50 funds teacher recognition.
$100 support future educators.
Every gift makes a difference.
Why give?
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Invest in Shelby County's Future
Every dollar stays local — funding scholarships, classroom resources, and programs that give Shelby County students the tools to thrive right here at home.
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Open Doors for Local Students
Many students in our community face financial barriers to higher education. Your gift helps break those barriers and makes college a reality, not just a dream.
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Strengthen the Whole Community
An educated community is a stronger community. When Shelby County students succeed, they return, contribute, and help build the place we all call home.
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Fund What Schools Can't
Public funding only goes so far. SCEF fills the gaps — supporting innovative programs, teacher development, and student opportunities that fall outside traditional budgets.
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Honor Shelby County's Legacy
Generations of local families have built something special here. Your generosity continues that tradition and ensures the next generation inherits an even stronger foundation.
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Multiply Your Impact
Shelby County Education Foundation amplifies your gift through strategic partnerships and matching programs, so your contribution goes further than you might imagine.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes. The Shelby County Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which means your gift is tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law. You'll receive a donation receipt via email for your records. We recommend consulting your tax advisor for guidance specific to your situation.
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Your gift stays right here in Shelby County. SCEF funds student scholarships, classroom grants for teachers, college and career readiness programs, and initiatives that support underserved students throughout our local schools. We're committed to transparency — a full breakdown of how funds are allocated is available in our annual report.
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Absolutely. SCEF depends on passionate community members who want to do more than write a check. Whether you're interested in mentoring students, serving on a committee, sponsoring an event, or joining our board, there's a place for you. Reach out to us directly and we'll connect you with the right opportunity.
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Yes, and it's a meaningful way to celebrate or remember someone who valued education and community. During checkout, you'll have the option to dedicate your gift, and we'll send a notification to the family or honoree on your behalf. These tributes are a lasting way to carry on someone's legacy right here in Shelby County.
Shelby County Education Foundation Endowment
With the help of Citizens Union Bank, who generously donated the initial $20,000 seed money, the Shelby County Education Foundation will affect thousands of Shelby County students for years to come.
Founding Superintendent, James Neihof, said, "This is legacy in action. Through grants, scholarships, and gifts, the funds from the Shelby County Education Foundation will be used to give Shelby County students even greater opportunities to succeed as their future rises to meet them."