The ACC Foundation - Making It Happen
By Sydney Hildenburg
The ACC Foundation is always on a mission. What mission, you might ask? Its focus is on providing opportunities for growth for students, faculty, and the college itself. Throughout the year, the Foundation raises funds through events and donations, ensuring ACC students have the resources they need to succeed.
In the 2023-2024 academic year, the Foundation awarded $157,000 in scholarships to deserving graduating seniors from area high schools, along with current ACC students already on campus.
Nearly $70,000 was also awarded through the new First Step Award, a $500 scholarship designed to encourage students to take their very first college course. This award serves as a stepping stone for those beginning their higher education journey.
Additionally, the Foundation awarded more than $22,000 in grant funds for innovative faculty and staff initiatives during the 2024-2025 academic year. One such initiative, in collaboration with generous donors, brought a state-of-the-art refurbished BBQ pit to the Culinary Arts program, allowing students to enhance their skills in barbecue techniques.
The Foundation also offers an Emergency Fund to support students facing unexpected crises that could jeopardize their education. From gift cards and bicycle transportation to car repairs, temporary housing, or utility bills, these emergency grants, while modest, can make all the difference to a student one obstacle away from dropping out.
The ACC Foundation is fortunate to have many generous donors, both one-time contributors and those who give year after year to support students. The Foundation is also deeply involved in networking and "friendraising"—cultivating relationships across the community. It hosts engaging events to raise awareness about ACC and the important work being done to support students and the college.
Two fundraising events are held annually: the longstanding Gala and the newly established Designer Bag Bingo, which has already become a sold-out tradition. Participants play bingo for the chance to win designer handbags, with proceeds benefiting ACC students—a night of fun, games and community support.
Additionally, the Choose Kind Employee Giving Campaign exemplifies ACC's culture of generosity and compassion. With over two-thirds of ACC’s full-time faculty and staff participating through monthly donations, the campaign raises more than $30,000 annually to support student assistance.
You can join the mission, too! The ACC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and donations are tax-deductible to the extent the law allows. Your contribution will make a lasting impact on the lives of students pursuing their educational dreams.
On behalf of the ACC Foundation Board, thank you for your support and for allowing us to share how the Foundation Makes It Happen at ACC!
To learn more or help the Foundation continue its mission through a donation, contact us:
Other Ways to Give:
- Donate to Support the Emergency Fund
- Give an Honorary or Memorial Gift
- Establish a New Scholarship
- Request Corporate Matching Gifts
- Offer Program Support monetarily or with an equipment donation