Frequently asked questions

• What is the Bridgewater-Raynham Educational Foundation Corporation?

The Bridgewater Raynham Educational Foundation Corporation (BREFC) is a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. It is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of officers and directors who represent the community, business leaders, parents, teachers and school administration.

The mission of BREFC is to benefit the schools by funding innovative educational programs with the support of a diverse group of public and private organizations.

Foundation grants will support learning activities that foster creative thinking, innovative problem solving, and hands-on learning opportunities that are not already included in existing school or town budgets. Funds are generated through corporate donations, state and federal grants, private foundations and community contributions and used to encourage achievement among students of all ages and foster a culture of learning and curiosity within the town. All donations and in-kind contributions are tax deductible.


• Why does Bridgewater-Raynham need an educational foundation?

Education foundations are privately operated, nonprofit organizations established to assist public schools. They are different from school districts, public institutions or local governments and are designed to complement programs and activities currently being provided by the district.

• How will the Bridgwater-Raynham Educational Foundation Raise Money?

BREFC will solicit funds throughout the year from corporations and individuals who recognize that excellence in public education is essential to the social and economic being of our community.  BREFC is not intended to replace the public funding of our schools.  After gaining initial support from the community, BREFC will focus on the following fundraising channels:

  • Corporate: we will partner with public and private organizations that can help us to establish credibility and build sustainability.  Additionally, we will seek to double individual donations through corporate matching programs.

  • Public & Private Foundations: we will work to secure funding from state grants and private foundations.  If the opportunity arises, we will seek federal funding.

  • Individual:

    • Events: we will choose fundraising events that are innovative and have a unique appeal to the community.

    • Annual Appeal + Targeted Campaigns: we will implement an annual appeal in conjunction with smaller targeted campaigns.



• How are education foundations different from PTOs or other community organizations that support schools?

While PTOs raise money for specific schools, education foundations allow for the funding of all public schools in the district, thereby expanding the pool of resources available to teachers, and administrators

Both types of organizations are critical for school systems to flourish. Collaboration and transparency with other parent and community groups are core values of BREFC. It is our intention to get members of Bridgewater and Raynham’s PTOs to serve as volunteers for both organizations which will then enable ongoing and open dialogue and opportunities for partnership around the funding of larger projects.


• How can I participate?

There are two ways to become involved with BREFC:

  • Donate – donations are tax-deductible and may be made in the form of checks (?) To make a donation or learn more, please click here.

  • Become a volunteer - We welcome anyone who would like to donate time, energy, and talent to help BREFC meet its goals.

Please contact us for more information on how to get involved.