10 Million Reasons to Celebrate: A Tribute to Petaluma’s Giving Spirit

In April 2025, the Petaluma Educational Foundation (PEF) reached a remarkable milestone—over $10 million raised to support education in the Petaluma area. This achievement is more than just a number; it embodies the collective dedication and enduring spirit of a community committed to educational excellence.

Founded in 1982, PEF is a privately funded, non-profit organization that has steadfastly supported more than 12,000 students annually across 35 TK-12 public, private, and charter schools in Petaluma. Our mission is to fund programs that promote critical thinking, creativity, student well-being, and lifelong learning.

This blog reflects on PEF’s humble beginnings, pivotal growth, and the visionary future that lies ahead—all made possible through sustained community support.

Humble Beginnings: Lighting the Spark (1982–1990)

In 1982, facing significant budget deficits in California’s school system, a group of local educators, business leaders, parents, and community activists united to create PEF. Their goal was to devise funding solutions for Petaluma area schools, ensuring that educational opportunities remained robust despite financial challenges.

The foundation’s early efforts included awarding $18,000 in mini-grants in 1984, each limited to $500, to support various educational initiatives. By 1990, PEF had expanded its support by awarding $12,350 in scholarships, laying a solid foundation for future growth.

These initial steps were driven by a community that recognized the importance of investing in its youth, setting the stage for PEF’s enduring impact.

Building Momentum: Community-Driven Growth (1991–2000)

The 1990s marked a period of strategic expansion and innovation for PEF. In 1992, the Henris Family established an endowment, providing long-term sustainability for the foundation’s initiatives. Two years later, in 1994, the Alphabet Soup Benefit Thrift Store opened as a joint venture with the Petaluma Boys & Girls Club, creating a permanent revenue stream to support PEF’s mission.

Fundraising events like the first Duck Race in 1997 showcased the community’s creativity and commitment to education. These efforts enabled the launch of scholarship programs and initiatives such as “Invest in Education,” empowering more students to pursue their academic goals.

This era of steady growth and innovation was driven by a clear focus on educational empowerment, reflecting the community’s unwavering support.

Expanding Horizons: Innovation and Impact (2001–2010)

The new millennium brought significant milestones for PEF. In 2000, the foundation received a transformative gift of $800,000 from the Arnold Scott estate, enhancing its capacity to support educational initiatives. By 2006, PEF celebrated the Million Dollar Bash, marking the first $1,000,000 given to schools through the annual Impact Grant and Scholarship programs.

Programmatic innovations during this period included the launch of the “Fund the Future” initiative in 2007, engaging board members in fundraising efforts, and the introduction of Major Impact Grants in 2010, which increased grant limits and broadened curriculum-based support.

These advancements redefined community engagement and provided targeted support to schools, underscoring PEF’s role as a catalyst for educational excellence.

A Legacy of Impact: Continued Community Engagement (2011–2022)

Between 2011 and 2022, PEF focused on strategic vision and long-term planning. In 2014, the foundation launched a 20-Year Plan to grow the grant endowment, with a vision to award $500,000 annually in Impact Grants. This period also saw record-high scholarship awards, with $263,934 distributed to 289 seniors in 2024, supporting students from all Petaluma area high schools in pursuing further education in colleges and vocational programs.

Community fundraising remained at the heart of PEF’s strategy, with initiatives like the T.E.C. Initiative launching in 2011 to bring innovative technology resources into the classroom. These efforts ensured that PEF’s support evolved with the changing educational landscape, continually meeting the needs of students and educators.

Today and Beyond: Celebrating 43 Years of Educational Empowerment

In April 2025, PEF surpassed $10 million in financial support, a historic moment that reflects the foundation’s profound impact on education in Sonoma County. This achievement is a testament to the collective effort of donors, volunteers, educators, and community members who have championed PEF’s mission over the years.

The funds raised have been allocated across Impact Grants, Scholarships, and special initiatives, addressing current educational challenges and reinforcing the importance of continued community support. Every donor—from parents to alumni—has played a crucial role in this success story, highlighting the transformative power of community and education.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining the Legacy of Empowerment

Reflecting on the lessons learned over the past four decades, PEF recognizes the power of community-led initiatives and the importance of adaptive, innovative programming. The foundation’s forward-looking vision includes continuing to support education through dynamic programs, community partnerships, and sustained fundraising efforts.

PEF plans to keep growing the endowment and expanding its support for educational and extracurricular programs, ensuring that future generations of students have access to impactful educational opportunities. By emphasizing a strategic approach that combines community engagement with thoughtful programming, PEF is committed to sustaining its legacy of empowerment.

Become Part of PEF’s Lasting Legacy

From humble beginnings to the $10 million milestone, PEF’s journey is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Petaluma community. This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of donors, volunteers, educators, and local businesses who believe in the power of education.

As we celebrate this milestone, we also look ahead to the future. The need for educational support continues to grow, and PEF remains committed to funding innovative programs, scholarships, and resources that empower students. But we can’t do it alone.

Join us in continuing this legacy—whether by making a donation, volunteering, or attending a fundraising event. Every contribution, big or small, makes a lasting impact on the future of education in Petaluma. Be a part of the next chapter. Learn how you can get involved or make a donation today.