President's Message
Dear Friends of SEF,
Welcome spring! It’s both a busy and an exciting time in our community as students begin to return to school, competitive sports and some of the many activities that bring them joy. Reflecting on this past year, that has been filled with triumphs and tragedy, we ourselves are filled with humility and an enormous sense of gratitude. We have witnessed our community forge through challenging times rising up united and stronger than ever. We are happy to say that we are finally realizing a greater sense of the calm after the storm and that rainbows do indeed appear.
It was an amazing year for SEF in spite of all of the challenges that COVID-19 brought us. With a continued commitment to excellence, my board and administrative team stepped forward to set rigorous yet attainable goals. Focusing on students and student achievement we progressed through the year planning, implementing and evaluating the efficacy of our programming. The courageous decisions SEF has made and the bold steps taken to move the Foundation forward over the past year has allowed us to empower our team, further our purpose, and unite with others in a shared vision to improve the lives of students. With an innovative spirit and selfless can-do attitude we will continue our work to advance our mission and promote and uphold high expectations for all stakeholders because we are fully aware the outcome is what matters most.
As May quickly approaches we have much to celebrate. The excitement in the community continues to build as we finalize plans for our 2021 Art Exhibition kick off event...stay tuned for more details. We are incredibly grateful for the support of all of our donors, including our community and corporate sponsors, who are committed to helping strengthen the efforts of the foundation and to build a strong, healthy and creative community where all students can thrive.
Today we are thrilled to highlight our gracious event sponsors, An anonymous donor advised fund at the California Community Foundation, Cathay Bank Foundation, Chick-fil-a, Pasadena and Mission Valley Free Methodist Church. Their generous backing of our inaugural event, combined with the support of the many individuals and businesses received, is a true testament to the strong community we all live and work in and the importance of the work that we do. Together we are helping to make a difference in the lives of so many and for this we are grateful.
Lastly, as we rapidly near June, we are building our board and are in need of community members like yourselves to join us and help lead our organization into the future. Please consider volunteering within our organization. With your service, we will continue to strengthen and grow the foundation and provide students with access to academic and enrichment programs that have a lasting impact. We need you, we want to work with you, and we welcome you!
I want to reiterate our gratitude for your continued support and wish you and your family good health and good spirits. Warmer weather and better times are here!
Sending you lots of springtime cheer,
Alison DeVriendt
SEF President 2020-2021
Questions about our organization? I encourage you to please continue to refer to our website SEFfor8schools.org and our social media page on Facebook. Please reach out to me via email at sefboardpresident@gmail.com if you would like more information on joining our team!!
