About the Harvard Community Education Foundation
More than twenty years ago, a group of community, business, and academic leaders joined with concerned parents to form the Harvard Community Education Foundation. From the very beginning, the Foundation’s goal has been to improve our community by increasing the quality of our childrens’ education.
The Foundation raises and disburses funds for educational programs above and beyond those available through tax-supported education. Examples include:
- CNC Router Kit to provide 200-300 students with experience in manufacturing, design software and production at an industrial and manufacturing level.
- 3D printers for S.T.E.M. education
- Audio-visual lab to provide students new opportunities in video production (Vlog, YouTube,diy), sports casts, club activities, musical recording and production.
- Supporting the DUO program which allows students to graduate from Harvard High School with both a high school diploma and an Associate of Arts degree from McHenry Community College.
The HCEF has granted over $500,000 in Mini Grants, Mega Grants, and scholarships to further the education of the students of the Harvard Community School District over the last 9 nine years.
The Annual Black & Gold Ball is the only event the Foundation hosts each year and is the primary fundraiser for the organization. It provides the HCEF a platform to recognize community involvement, clarify our mission and share our ideas about the future of the Foundation.
The Hall of Fame was established jointly between the HCEF and District 50 to honor alumni who have made significant contributions to their community or achieved notable success in their professional careers. The Hall of Fame serves to celebrate the accomplishments of these individuals and inspire current students by showcasing the impact that Harvard High School graduates can have in various fields and community endeavors.