FOUNDATION OF THE LORAIN PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM

The Foundation of the Lorain Public Library System, Inc. is:
--Dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in each community it serves by supporting and strengthening the activities of the Lorain Public Library System.

--Funds initiatives and programs that support the library's role as a community resource for education, recreation, and information.

__For FY 2018-2019, The Foundation is conducting its annual appeal to support the Lorain Public Library System's Discovery on the Go. This new program's primary area of focus is emerging literacy for preschoolers, who will be introduced to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math). The Discovery on the Go van has been purchased and outfitted with books and materials to give children the opportunity to check out STEAM-related books from the vehicle and provide families activities to enhance learning.

Recruitment of active board members whose skills and expertise are needed to take the Foundation to its next level.

Continue the Annual Appeal to private donors and library supporters for programs or initiatives that will enhance services or programs in our Library's communities.

Build corporate sponsorships and community partnerships.

Build a partnership with The Community Foundation of Lorain County and utilize fundraising opportunities such as Connect-to-a-Cause.

Grant applications.

The Foundation has been steadily adding volunteer board members with skills and backgrounds such as grant-writing, banking and finance, library science and management experience. The Foundation continues to seek others with marketing, website and social media, and fundraising skills.

The Foundation seeks support directly from donors via an annual appeal or campaign. The appeal/campaign is conducted through directed mailing solicitation and "donate now" via the Lorain Public Library's website. In 2020, the Foundation participated in the Community Foundation's campaign called "Connect-to-a-Cause". The Foundation will actively participate in 2021.

The Foundation has accomplished a small growth in direct public support in revenues to support programming such as the previous Summer Reading Program throughout our service areas and communities.

The number of board members (100% volunteers) has increased by two members in 2020.

The Foundation is actively working with the Community Foundation of Lorain County and their expertise in planned and estate giving. The Community Foundation of Lorain County's offerings of multiple fundraising in the non-profit segment educational topics has enhanced our knowledge in many areas of the non-profit world. Board members actively attend educational offerings throughout the year.

There is a challenge of the changing landscape of corporate giving and partnerships. The Foundation would benefit from a part-time executive director or fundraising expert that could facilitate other types of fundraising opportunities.