August's Change for Good partner is a perfect fit for this month as our kids head back to school. Ashland Schools Foundation (ASF) is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting quality education in Ashland's public schools. You may have run in the Monster Dash or noticed the "Perk Up for Students" sign at our local coffeeshops - these are just some of the (fun and delicious) ways you are already supporting ASF.

Founded in 1989, ASF has donated over $9 million to support and enrich education right here in Ashland. Their mission is to enrich quality education in Ashland's public schools by raising funds in the community. But those words become action, real difference - like funding for after-school tutoring, teacher professional development opportunities, classroom enrichment, and even emergency assistance for teachers impacted by the 2020 Almeda Fire.

Year after year, ASF directly grants money to teachers and staff with grants to support funding for creative and innovative classroom projects. During the 2024–2025 school year, these include everything from music and art supplies to STEM/STEAM kits to social-emotional learning tools - the kind of extras that keep students on track and eager to learn.

Want to know where all those dollars are going? View the entire list of grants awarded this year.

Mark your calendars - Monster Dash is on Saturday, October 25th! This fun run and fundraiser invites runners, walkers, and costume lovers of all ages to put on their sneakers (or claws) and make a difference. Proceeds go directly back to ASF's classroom grant programs and there might not be a more fun way to support a good cause! Registration opens soon so stay tuned...

Throughout the entire month, you can create Change for Good by rounding up your in-store purchase at checkout to support ASF's important work. All those pennies add up to bring more resources to our classrooms and additional assistance to our incredible local teachers.