District 214 Foundation Supporters to Come Out Swinging

Look for every bay at Schaubmurg’s Topgolf to be filled Thursday night when supporters of District 214’s Education Foundation — including business leaders, municipal officials and community activists — come out to take their swings.

For the fourth year in a row, this unique fundraiser will raise money for student support beyond the scope of the district’s funding and budget. Foundation members are committed to expanding opportunities for students to explore their futures.

Tee it Up for 214 takes place from 6 – 9 p.m. Thursday at Schaumburg’s Topgolf. While bays are sold out, supporters may attend as non-golfers. Registration, sponsorship and donation opportunities are available, here.

Opportunities to help range from connecting students with internships, job shadows and industry credentials in District 214’s Career Pathways program; to helping those interested in the fine arts afford instruments, art supplies and performance opportunities.

A main focus of the foundation is to maintain an emergency assistance fund to provide basic needs for families facing financial insecurity.

“In my opinion, the Education Foundation truly is the heart of our district,” says Joann Krestel, Outreach Coordinator for the foundation. “Much of its impact happens quietly, behind the scenes. With the help of our teachers, social workers, counselors and other staff, we’re able to connect with students and families who are going through unexpected hardships.”

Some of the emergency fund requests include providing food and basic necessities as well as housing assistance — including rent/ mortgage assistance, or motel short term stays. Other requests come in for help with medical assistance (co-pays, physical therapy, immediate care visits).

District 214 Board President Alva Kreutzer with Tom Munz, former President of the District 214 Education Foundation, in 2024

Students also need help affording school supplies — calculators, work boots, scrubs, jackets — as well as with transportation needs (gas cards, Uber, Ventra cards), and items for extracurricular activities, such as track suits, running shoes or cheer jackets, for instance.

“We work to meet those needs with compassion and discretion,” Krestel says. “Sometimes that means providing direct financial assistance, and other times it means connecting a family with resources that can offer ongoing support.

“Whatever the situation,” she adds, “our goal is to ensure that students know they are not alone and that the District 214 community is here to help.”