In this episode of "Discovering Grayslake," recorded at The Loop Marketing, the hosts welcome Jennifer Everett, president of Foundation 46 and a Grayslake Middle School reading specialist. Jennifer shares how Foundation 46 supports local teachers and students through flexible grants, fundraising events like Barn Fest, and community activities such as school scavenger hunts. The conversation highlights the importance of community involvement, employer donation matching, and volunteering. Listeners are encouraged to attend events, apply for grants, and help spread the word, all working together to strengthen Grayslake's hometown spirit and support its schools.
How Foundation 46 Empowers Grayslake: A Deep Dive into Community-Driven Educational Support
Grayslake is more than just a town—it's a community where neighbors look out for each other, and where local organizations like Foundation 46 are making a real difference in the lives of teachers, students, and families. In a recent episode of the "Discovering Grayslake" podcast, recorded at The Loop Marketing at the end of Center Street and Lake, we sat down with Jennifer Everett, a seventh-grade reading specialist at Grayslake Middle School and the current president of Foundation 46. Jennifer, along with our hosts, shared invaluable insights into how Foundation 46 operates, the impact it has, and how every community member can get involved.
This blog post unpacks the main themes and actionable tips from the episode, offering a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in supporting education in Grayslake. Whether you're a teacher, parent, business owner, or simply a neighbor who cares, there's a role for you in this hometown effort.
What is Foundation 46?
Foundation 46 is a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting teachers and students in Grayslake's District 46. Through grants, fundraising events, and community partnerships, the foundation provides resources and opportunities that go beyond what the school budget can cover. Their mission is simple: empower educators, enrich student experiences, and strengthen the community.
1. Flexible, Teacher-Friendly Grants: Fueling Creativity in the Classroom
How the Grant Program Works
One of the standout features of Foundation 46 is its open, rolling grant application process. Unlike many grant programs that have rigid deadlines, Foundation 46 allows teachers to apply whenever inspiration strikes. Applications are reviewed monthly, making it easier for busy educators to access funding when they need it most.
Types of Grants:
Project Grants:** $500–$1,000 for classroom projects, materials, or programs.
Impact Grants:** Over $1,000 for larger, collaborative, or cross-school initiatives.
Application Process:
Teachers submit a Google Form detailing their project, its goals, and the number of students impacted.
The Foundation uses a rubric to ensure fair, transparent evaluation.
If more information is needed, teachers are encouraged to revise and resubmit—Foundation 46 is committed to helping ideas succeed, not just rubber-stamping or rejecting applications.
Actionable Tips for Teachers
Don't Wait for the "Perfect" Idea:** If you see a need in your classroom, apply! The process is designed to be supportive, not intimidating.
Collaborate Across Schools:** Projects that benefit multiple classrooms or schools are especially encouraged.
Think Beyond Supplies:** Past grants have funded everything from sensory kits and STEM materials to author visits and family reading nights.
Reapply if Needed:** If your application isn't approved the first time, use the feedback to strengthen your proposal and try again.
Expert Insight
Jennifer Everett emphasizes, "We want to say yes. If you have a creative idea that will benefit students, we're here to help you make it happen."
2. Fundraising with Heart: Barn Fest and Beyond
Barn Fest: The Signature Event
Barn Fest is Foundation 46's biggest annual fundraiser, held at Jessie Oaks. It's an adult-only evening packed with fun—think mechanical bull rides, live music from Stu the Piano Guy, games, drink specials, and both live and silent auctions. The event is more than just a party; it's a chance for the whole community to rally behind local schools.
Key Features:
Affordable Tickets:** $25 for teachers, $40 for community members (includes dinner).
Community Awards:** The Tom Mescal Award honors outstanding contributors.
Unique Auction Items:** From rides in fire trucks to airplane experiences, the auction is always a highlight.
Themed Fun:** This year's "Denim and Diamonds" theme blends country charm with a touch of sparkle.
Other Fundraising Initiatives
Dine-In Shares:** Local restaurants like The Vine and Black Lung host special nights where a portion of proceeds goes to Foundation 46.
Scavenger Hunts:** Family-friendly events at local schools encourage exploration and community spirit.
Sponsorships:** Local businesses can sponsor events or donate auction items, gaining visibility and goodwill.
Actionable Tips for Community Members
Attend Events:** Your ticket directly supports grants for teachers.
Donate Auction Items:** Unique experiences or services are always in demand.
Sponsor a Fundraiser:** Businesses can make a big impact and connect with local families.
Host a Dine-In Share:** Restaurant owners, consider partnering with Foundation 46 for a win-win event.
Expert Insight
Jennifer notes, "We want Barn Fest to be a celebration for everyone, not just teachers. The more the community gets involved, the more we can do for our schools."
3. Maximizing Impact: Employer Matching and Volunteer Power
Employer Matching: Double (or Triple) Your Donation
Many local companies—including AbbVie, Allstate, Cardinal Health, CDW, First Midwest Bank, Granger, Kraft, Discover, and Motorola—offer matching gift programs. This means your donation to Foundation 46 could be doubled or even tripled, at no extra cost to you.
How to Take Advantage:
Check with HR:** Ask your employer if they match charitable donations.
Submit Your Receipt:** Even event tickets may qualify as a donation.
Spread the Word:** Encourage coworkers to participate.
Real-World Example: At last year's Barn Fest, a $1,000 donation was matched by Granger, resulting in a $3,000–$4,000 total impact.
Volunteering: The Heartbeat of Foundation 46
Like many nonprofits, Foundation 46 relies on a core group of dedicated volunteers—but they're always looking for more hands and fresh ideas.
Ways to Volunteer:
Join the Board:** Meetings are open to the public, held the first Thursday of each month at Frederick School's Falcon Room.
Help at Events:** From setup to auction management, there's a role for everyone.
Spread the Word:** Share Foundation 46's mission on social media or within your school community.
Jennifer's Wish: "If even a small percentage of our 500 district employees volunteered, we'd have an incredible team. Every bit helps."
4. Expanding the Mission: Scholarships and Community Engagement
New Initiatives: Student Scholarships
Starting in 2026, Foundation 46 plans to offer student scholarships to help cover costs like sports fees for families in need. This expansion reflects a commitment to supporting not just teachers, but students and their families as well.
Community-Building Activities
School Scavenger Hunts:** Inspired by Jennifer's own experiences, these events encourage families to explore local schools and connect with each other.
Family Reading Nights and Author Visits:** Funded by grants, these programs foster a love of learning and bring the community together.
Actionable Tips for Families
Participate in Events:** Bring your family to scavenger hunts and reading nights.
Apply for Scholarships:** If you need help with extracurricular costs, watch for upcoming opportunities.
Stay Informed:** Follow Foundation 46 on social media and sign up for newsletters.
5. How to Get Involved: Your Next Steps
For Teachers:
Apply for a grant—no idea is too small or too big.
Collaborate with colleagues for cross-school projects.
For Parents and Community Members:
Attend Barn Fest and other events.
Volunteer your time or skills.
Donate or secure auction items.
Check if your employer offers matching gifts.
For Local Businesses:
Sponsor an event or donate services.
Host a dine-in share night.
For Everyone:
Share Foundation 46's mission on social media.
Encourage friends and neighbors to get involved.
Attend a board meeting to learn more.
Contact Information:
Email:** foundation46board@gmail.com
Website:** foundation46.org
Final Thoughts: Small Actions, Big Impact
As Jennifer and the podcast hosts remind us, supporting local schools is a community effort. Whether you're donating, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every action counts. In the words of our host, "Do one or two random acts of kindness each day—especially during the holiday season. Together, we can make Grayslake an even better place to live, learn, and grow."
Subscribe to "Discovering Grayslake" on your favorite platform to stay updated on local stories and opportunities to get involved.
Let's keep the hometown spirit alive—support Foundation 46 and help Grayslake's students and teachers thrive!
