Ossining MATTERS was first introduced to the community in June 2003.  At that time, it was little more than an idea.  We could not have anticipated how successful our first 16 months would be, how much support we would receive from the entire Ossining community, and how many people would devote their time and effort to help us help the Ossining schools.

Ossining MATTERS is a not-for-profit Education Foundation, which was established to raise funds for the Ossining School District. The mission of Ossining MATTERS is to support and enrich the learning opportunities for all children in the Ossining School District. By generating community awareness and support for the school district, we will create an ongoing source of funds to augment the programs offered in the Ossining Public Schools.

 The foundation will raise funds through community events such as walkathons, auctions, concerts, gala dinners and golf outings; annual fund drive mailings; and the use of government and corporate grants.

 The funds we raise will be used to support academic, cultural arts, and athletic programs in all of the Ossining schools. The diversity and varied needs of our school population provide an opportunity for the foundation to get involved in many different areas.

Our most fund-raising event in September 2004, a Walk/Run on the Old Croton Aqueduct, was a huge success, raising more than $6000, with over 500 people participating.  Our concert in March 2003, featuring internationally acclaimed classical musicians Gil and Orli Shaham and the Ossining High School Chamber Ensemble raised over $25,000.

Due to our fund-raising successes last year, we are pleased to be funding the following projects, chosen from applications that were submitted this spring by Ossining School District Staff:

·         A new video library for the 9^th grade Living Environment science course, which will be especially helpful for visual learners and English language learners.

·         Partial payment for a digital camera to be used by "The Current" (OHS Newspaper) staff to improve the quality of this publication that is read by many.

·         Books for independent reading to be available in 7^th grade classrooms, making literature easily accessible to all.

·         A medium format camera, negative carriers and lenses to be used by high school photography classes.

·         Two day staff development in Math and Science for K-8 teachers by the Center for Concept-Based Education.

·         Contribution toward new lighting system for the High School Auditorium.

·         A Collaborative program between the High School and Park School to improve the reading, comprehension and pronunciation skills of young ESL students by providing them with a lending library of appropriate books on tape which are recorded by students at the High School who are bilingual or studying Spanish.

Here are some ways that you can help us:

·         Join us at our community events to lend your financial and moral support, and enthusiasm

·         Respond to our annual appeal letter which you will be receiving in November

·         Talk to your employer about making a financial contribution or sponsoring programs

·         Volunteer your time to help plan fundraising events, help with mailings or serve on other committees

·         Add your name to our mailing list so we can send you information about our projects and updates on our progress

We are so very pleased with our success in this, our first year.  We are optimistic that with the help of generous members of the community and the commitment of so many people who believe in the merits of our foundation, that we will be able to make a difference in the education of Ossining's students.

  Please become our partners. Thank you.

 You can learn more about Ossining MATTERS by visiting our website at www.ossiningmatters.org

or you can contact us with questions at info@ossiningmatters.org.

Ossining MATTERS, Inc.  
P.O. Box 1012, Ossining, New York 10562

914-762-8108