Mission, Vision, & Values
Our Mission
Rockingham Educational Foundation, Inc. supports learning by securing financial contributions and educational resources that benefit RCPS students and teachers.
The Foundation will achieve its mission by directing resources toward these goals:
- Strengthen and enrich learning through the development of innovative programs
- Inspire parents and community members to participate in the school system to enrich education
- Support additional training and resources for educators of RCPS
- Provide the tools to prepare students for future success
- Build community support and positive attention to RCPS
Our Vision
Strong schools. Empowered teachers. Prepared students.
Our Values
- Collaboration: We are committed to reaching out to others and establishing partnerships that provide the best possible outcomes for our students.
- Excellence: We are dedicated to going above and beyond in accomplishing our mission and supporting the continuous pursuit of quality learning in our schools.
- Volunteerism: We believe the spirit of volunteerism enhances the educational possibilities for our students, educators, and community.
- Recognition: We believe in the importance of acknowledging those who exemplify educational excellence and support our mission.
History
In 1994, a group of citizens came together with the belief that a good education is vital to the economic and social health of a community. They formed the educational foundation to enhance the quality of education in the Rockingham community. REFI was incorporated on September 19, 1994.
The organization is governed by 25 volunteers who serve as the Board of Directors. There are four core programs: Educational Grants, Teacher Recognition, Scholarships, and the Teacher Supply Depot. These are what we do – the programs that make a difference in the schools. There are three operational areas: Budget and Investment, Annual Fund, and Special Events. These operational areas produce the financial means for how we do these programs.
REFI welcomes ideas, suggestions and contributions from individuals interested in our mutual goal of supporting students, staff and the learning efforts, environment and opportunities in Rockingham County Public Schools.
History of REFI’s Legal Documents
- Sept. 14, 1994 – Articles of Incorporation were signed
- Oct. 31, 1995 – Internal Revenue Service 501 (c) 3 letter received
- Jan. 26, 1999 – Identification Number Received (54-1735837)
- Dec. 7, 2001 – Identification Number Received (54-1735837)
- Dec. 9, 2004 – Received the Retail Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption
- Nov. 10, 2005 – REFI officially registered as with the Virginia Office of Consumer Affairs as an approved charitable organization
- Aug. 8, 2006 – Change of Registered Office from 4 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801 to 100 Mount Clinton Pike, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
- Aug. 29, 2007 – By-Laws rewritten, approved
First Board of Directors, elected in 1995
- Marcia Blay (McGrath)
- Ellen Blose
- Pablo Cuevas
- Douglas Driver
- Bonnie Hoover
- Ellen Layman
- Edward S. Long, Jr.
- Betty Martin
- Richard S. Myers
- Randy Nesselrodt
- Edward L. Smith
- Denis G. Toomey
- Janet Wendelken
- Carlyle Whitelow
Make a Positive impact in student lives & SupportED.
Thank you in advance for your generous support that allows us to make a difference in the lives of thousands of people and their families each year. When you support REFI, you SupportED in Rockingham County, VA.
