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Hi Pete! How did the idea for Concord Foundation form?
After much deliberation, we select our scholarship recipients for the school year and schedule “Concord Foundation Day” – a meet-and-greet luncheon where students meet all of Concord’s employees, sign up for summer internship and mentorship opportunities, and learn more about what it means to be part of Concord Foundation from a relationship and accountability perspective. Why is Concord Foundation unique compared to other nonprofit organizations? I believe Concord Foundation is special because of our commitment to partnering with students financially and, more importantly, serving as a support system throughout their four years in college and beyond. Our support takes on many forms – mentoring, internships, academic accountability, networking, and so on. We make a personal investment in the lives of each student and supporters help guide students every step of the way.
We wanted to make the giving experience more direct and relational. Instead of asking individuals to donate time and money to a greater good without knowing exactly how those elements are applied, we created an opportunity for people to know exactly who they are supporting. In providing opportunities such as meet-and- greets, one-on-one meetings, customized programming challenges, summer internships, blog writing and commentary, mentorships, and networking, we create a framework for lasting, accountability-based relationships. Additionally, thanks to Concord’s generosity in monetarily backing organizational administrative costs, 100% of donations go directly towards fulfilling collegiate financial aid obligations.
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We like to call it ‘closing the loop’ on philanthropic giving.
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How do you select students to support? Each spring, applications are accepted from high school seniors planning to attend college in the fall. Each application is accompanied by a personalized essay detailing what it would mean for them to attend college, how they have overcome challenges in their life, and why they would be a great candidate for a Concord Foundation scholarship. This is where our relationships begin with each student – we get to know a bit more about their backstory and what makes them tick. Concord Foundation committee members review applications and welcome students to Concord’s office for in-person interviews where we get to shake hands (pre-COVID of course – thank goodness for technology and the opportunity to connect virtually!) and get to know them on a personal level.
About Concord Foundation
Concord Foundation is a nonprofit organization generated to provide college scholarships, mentorship, and career growth opportunities to college-bound students who have demonstrated a commitment to STEM-based academics, leadership development, and community service. The organization is dedicated to supporting and mentoring students in the local community who may not be able to attend the college of their choice due to life circumstances or current financial state. Established in 2003, Concord Foundation was founded by Jeff Northrup, Co-Founder & COO of Concord and Peter Haugen, Head Football Coach at Gustavus Adolphus University.
Philanthropy Rules! Concord Foundation | 31
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