Animals are proven comforters. They are utilized in nursing homes, on college campuses during exam week and as emotional support to those in need. Now Fairfield school children are going to benefit from the comfort of Facility Dogs thanks to the support of the Fairfield Community Foundation’s (FCF) Community Grant Fund.
The $50,000 grant is the first given since the Foundation affiliated with the Hamilton Community Foundation, and illustrates the power of a community grant fund, a fund that the Foundation is focused on building over the next few years.
“We want to be able to fund even more projects like this,” says Justin Krueger, FCF Board Chair. “Every dollar gifted to the fund leaves a lasting impact here locally without fees.”
“This particular project serves both the city and township through the schools and is a wonderful opportunity for us to give to a really good initiative,” says Krueger. “We want the Fairfield community to know that we are their partner in philanthropy.”
Fairfield City Schools currently have one Facility Dog, Warren, at Fairfield South Elementary. His presence is cited as a major contributor to a remarkable 50% reduction in behavioral issues at the school, illustrating the significant impact of these four-legged companions. Each facility dog costs approximately $10,000 for initial placement, covering the training of the animal and specialized handler training for school staff.
Andrea Goins, a Guidance Counselor at Fairfield South Elementary and handler to Warren, shared, "Warren's unwavering affirmation and acceptance have significantly improved the mood and behavior of our students, promoting a conducive learning environment."
The Fairfield Leadership Class of 2023 established the “Fur Fund” at the Foundation to extend the positive effects that Warren has had district-wide and provide for them on an on-going basis. Central Elementary will be the district’s second facility which is already being supported in part by this new fund at the Foundation. The $50,000 FCF community grant will provide up to five additional facility dogs, bringing the total in the district to 7 out of 10 buildings having a furry friend.
The Fund has a healthy start with the Fairfield Community Foundation gift, but further donations to the 'Fur Fund' will not only support new facility dog placements but will also cover ongoing expenses, such as emergency vet visits.
Sami Brandenburg, a representative from the Fairfield Leadership Class of 2023, conveyed the hope that "every student graduating from the Fairfield City School district will have experienced the benefit of a Facility Dog throughout their schooling. The influence these four-legged 'staff members' can have throughout a student’s educational journey is profound."
At the June 8th Groovin’ on the Green concert the Fairfield Community Foundation will be presenting Fairfield City Schools with the $50,000 grant check as part of the Leadership Class 2023’s class projects presentation.
The Fairfield Community Foundation, recently affiliated with the Hamilton Community Foundation, remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting community growth and welfare through grants and targeted initiatives.
Donations to the Fairfield Community Grant Fund or 'Fur Fund' can be made through the Fairfield Community Foundation by mail to 701 Wessel Drive, Suite A, Fairfield, OH 45014 or online at www.fairfieldcommunityfoundation.org under the Donate Now tab on the lefthand side.
Established in 1999, the Fairfield Community Foundation was created by a group of dedicated Fairfield residents who wanted to support the Fairfield and Fairfield Township communities. In July 2022 FCF became an affiliate organization of the Hamilton Community Foundation. With assets of $5 million, FCF is growing in scope, reach and impact.
