About Us
Mission Statement
The mission of Beyond the Books Educational Foundation is to fund innovative enrichment programs for the students of McLean County Unit District No. 5 and Bloomington District 87 Public Schools.
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” - Benjamin Franklin
How is the Foundation Structured?Beyond the Books Educational Foundation is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) Illinois corporation that was formed in 1992. Its purpose is to provide a long-term, self-sustaining financial base that will annually fund innovative academic programs in District 87 and Unit 5 public schools. All work of the Foundation is accomplished by private citizens who serve without salary as the Board of Directors. Annually the Board elects officers and directors, reviews policies and practices, evaluates and funds qualified grants, and conducts a financial audit. The Boards of Education of Unit 5 and District 87 encouraged the formation of the Foundation and strongly support its efforts—a partnership for innovation in public education.
“It takes an entire village to educate a child.” - African proverb
What is the Process for Awarding Grants?Each winter, educators in both District 87 and Unit 5 are invited to submit written grant applications that describe the project, method of implementation, cost estimate and the value of the program to students. A blind review of the applications is conducted by the Beyond the Books Educational Foundation Board of Directors and funding is awarded according to established criteria. The selected programs are implemented the following school year.
“Parents cannot leave a better legacy to the world than well-educated children.” - Unknown
What Kinds of Enrichment Programs are Funded?The objective of Beyond the Books Educational Foundation is to fund innovative programs that enhance educational experiences. The Foundation is committed to educational excellence in the core academic areas, the arts and humanities, sciences, and technology. All age levels and areas of study are considered.
“We must view young people not as empty bottles to be filled, but as candles to be lit.” Robert H. Shaffer
What is the Financial Goal of the Foundation?The goal of Beyond the Books Educational Foundation is to maintain an endowment fund of $1,000,000 which will provide investment earnings to fund annual grants. The on-going financial commitment of contributors to the Foundation can help our children and our community to become the best we can be.
“Education will never become as expensive as ignorance.” Unknown
How Can I Contribute to Beyond the Books Educational Foundation?
Your check, annual pledge, or donation via PayPal is appreciated.
- Make an Honor donation to commemorate a special person (child, teacher, parent) or occasion (birthday, anniversary, graduation, retirement).
- Remember someone with a Memorial gift.
- Name the Foundation in a bequest, real estate gift, or as a beneficiary on an insurance policy.
“Knowledge has to be improved, challenged, and increased constantly or it vanishes.” Peter Drucker
Donate online, or;
Print, fill out and mail Contribution/Pledge Card with checks payable to:
Beyond the Books Educational Foundation
P.O. Box 908
Bloomington, IL 61702-0908
