What We Do

The Rockford Education Foundation (REF) provides funding for educational opportunities, both basic and innovative, in the Rockford community. We do this by supporting educational programs and services within the geographic boundaries of the Rockford Public Schools. With your help we can make a difference.

REF Grants in Action

Every year REF funds dozens of programs that support educational excellence in 5 focus areas: STEAM education, the fine arts, social-emotional health, college/career readiness, and literacy.
Take a look.
Events

Events help us raise awareness and generate crucial resources to serve Rockford students. Join us for our events during Rockford Homecoming Week!
Find out more.
Become a Sponsor

We are so grateful to the many sponsors who step forward to support our events each year.
Read more.

“The question is not whether we can afford to invest in every child; it is whether we can afford not to.”
– Marian Wright Edelman

Our Impact This Year

The Rockford Education Foundation celebrated our 30th birthday in 2021. We met our goal of awarding $2 Million in grant funding back to the Rockford community. We are committed to serving ALL learners in the Rockford community.