Texoma Gives: Olney Education Foundation

The Olney Education Foundation is reaching out to supporters of the Olney Independent School District during the Texoma Gives online fundraiser on Sept. 7 to help more OHS grads achieve their dreams of higher education.

The Foundation provides financial support and mentorship for OISD graduates who may need help transitioning to college or other educational programs.

The OEF operates independently of the school district. Before students graduate from high school, OEF prepares them for college by helping with room deposits, buying laptops, and paying for Advanced Placement testing so students can enter their first year with college credits.

OEF mentors guide students through a degree plan and help match them with schools – whether universities, trade schools or associate degree programs – and advise them on the smartest way financially to achieve their desired employment.

“Each volunteer involved in the Foundation, whether a board member or mentor is never compensated for their time spent aiding students,” OEF said in a statement. “Therefore, any donations to OEF are almost dollar for dollar going directly to OISD students with the exception of minor expenses, such as website, yearly post office box rental, and postage stamps. And even some of these expenses are covered by generous individuals and businesses.”

The Foundation currently serves 20 students in its Scholarship/Mentorship Program. OEF has helped seven students graduate from college and expects three more to graduate in December, the foundation said. One student will receive a diesel mechanic’s certificate from TSTC Sweetwater, another with a degree in supply chain management from Texas Tech and a third earned an MBA from Midwestern State University.

OEF also has extended scholarships to three past OISD graduates, two of them working on their masters degrees and the other entering a doctoral program in physical therapy, the foundation said.

To support OEF during the Texoma Gives fund drive, mark your calendars for Thursday, Sept. 7, and visit the website at www.olneyef.com.

Click on the Texoma Gives link and follow the prompts to contribute. Those who prefer not to contribute online can mail donations to OEF, P.O. Box 68, Olney, Texas 76374.