Frequently Asked Questions | ELEEF

Find answers to common questions about ELEEF grants, donations, events, volunteering, and how we support public education in East Longmeadow.

• Is my donation tax-deductible?

  Yes. ELEEF is a registered 501(c)(3), and all donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law. Please consult with your accountant/CPA.

• How can I donate?

  You can donate online, by mail, through employer matching programs, via event participation, or through sponsorships. See our Donate page or our Partner page for all the ways to get involved!

• Can I set up a recurring monthly or annual donation?

  Yes - recurring gifts help provide stable, predictable funding for future grants.

• Can I donate in honor or memory of someone?

  Absolutely. Tribute gifts can be made in honor of a student, teacher, family member, or community supporter.

• Where does my donation go?

  Donations support grants, educational enhancements, and events that directly benefit East Longmeadow students.

• Can businesses or organizations donate?

  Yes. Local businesses, corporations, and community organizations frequently support ELEEF through sponsorships, grants, and donations.

• How does ELEEF ensure financial transparency?

  We follow nonprofit best practices, maintain accurate financial records, file annual IRS 990 forms, and provide detailed reporting to the community.

• How do I know my donation is being used responsibly?

  ELEEF operates lean, invests donor funds strategically, and distributes gains directly to school programs. We publicly share grant outcomes and financial updates. You are able to see every grant on our website.

• Can I see which grants were funded each year?

  Yes - ELEEF publishes grant announcements and project summaries highlighting how donor dollars made an impact.

• Can I see which grants were funded each year?

  Yes—ELEEF publishes grant announcements and project summaries highlighting how donor dollars made an impact.

• Does ELEEF have an endowment?

  Yes. Donations are pooled and invested to generate sustainable funding for long-term educational support. Each year we split net proceeds 50/50, 50% goes into the endowment investment account and 50% goes to the teacher grants

• What is ELEEF?

  ELEEF (East Longmeadow Educational Endowment Fund) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that raises private funds to support innovative educational projects in East Longmeadow Public Schools.

• What does ELEEF fund?

  We fund grants for programs, technology, equipment, curriculum enhancements, and creative learning initiatives that fall outside the district's operating budget.

• Which schools benefit from ELEEF grants?

  All five East Longmeadow public schools: Meadow Brook Elementary, Mountain View Elementary, Mapleshade Elementary, Birchland Park Middle School, and East Longmeadow High School.

• When was ELEEF founded?

  ELEEF was established in 1995 to enrich the quality of public education in East Longmeadow.

• How is ELEEF different from the school budget or PTO?

  ELEEF provides long-term, sustainable funding for teacher-led projects and district initiatives that go beyond what the annual school budget or parent organizations can support.

• How can I get more involved with ELEEF?

  You can donate, volunteer, attend events, join a committee, or become a business sponsor.

• Can parents get involved even if their children are not in East Longmeadow schools?

  Yes. Anyone who believes in supporting quality public education is welcome to participate.

• How do students benefit from ELEEF?

  Through new equipment, innovative learning programs, enrichment opportunities, updated technology, and enhanced classroom experiences.

• Can I help spread the word about ELEEF?

  Absolutely. Sharing our posts, attending events, and becoming an ELEEF ambassador greatly expands our impact.

• Who can I contact with questions about ELEEF?

  ELEEF board members and volunteers are available by email, social media, or at any ELEEF event.

• What fundraising events does ELEEF host?

  Events vary year to year but often include galas, community fundraisers, dining events, raffles, auctions, and family-friendly activities.

• How do event proceeds support students?

  All proceeds go directly into the ELEEF grant fund to support educational programs.

• Can I volunteer at ELEEF events?

  Yes! Volunteers are essential to our success. Community members can help with planning, promotion, event-day support, and more.

• How can a business sponsor an event?

  Businesses can become corporate sponsors, donate items for raffles/auctions, or support specific school initiatives.

• Does ELEEF partner with other nonprofits or organizations?

  When aligned with our mission, ELEEF partners on events, sponsorships, or educational initiatives that enhance student opportunities.

• Who can apply for ELEEF grants?

  Teachers, administrators, and school staff within the East Longmeadow Public School system.

• What types of projects are eligible for grants?

  Programs that enhance learning and reach the most amount of students across multiple years; such as STEM tools, arts initiatives, literacy programs, wellness projects, enrichment events, and technology upgrades.

• How often does ELEEF award grants?

  Grants are typically awarded annually in the late spring, depending on available funds.

• How are grant applications evaluated?

  The ELEEF board reviews applications based on educational impact, innovation, student reach, and alignment with ELEEF's mission.

• How much funding can a teacher or program receive?

  Amounts vary each year and depend on need, project scope, and available resources.

• Are sponsorships tax-deductible?

  Yes! ELEEF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Sponsorships are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. You'll receive a receipt for your records showing the deductible portion.

• When is my logo/artwork due?

  Logo and artwork should be submitted at least 2 weeks of sponsorship confirmation to ensure inclusion in all promotional materials. We accept high-resolution PNG, SVG, or AI files.

• Can I choose multiple events?

  Absolutely! Many businesses sponsor multiple events for greater community visibility.

• Do I receive tickets or reserved seating?

  As a Partner of ELEEF, you'll receive complimentary event tickets to the gala and a couple of entries to our road race. Check the specific benefits for partners on the Partners page as this changes year to year.

• How will my company be recognized?

  Recognition varies by tier and may include: logo placement on event materials, website recognition, social media shoutouts, on-stage mentions, booth/table space, and printed program ads. Full details are provided for each sponsorship level.

• Can I pay by check or request an invoice?

  Yes! We accept both PayPal and check payments. For invoice requests or questions about payment terms, contact our sponsorship team directly.