Arvin Harsh Community Educational Improvement Fund

TYPE OF FUND: Field of Interest

DATE ESTABLISHED: November 2023

PURPOSE: The fund provides grants to students and educational programs, with a focus on financial aid for local students pursuing careers in trades and other fields that enhance economic opportunities.

DISTRIBUTION: On the recommendation of the Grants Committee and final approval by the Board of Directors of Tucker Community Foundation.

VARIANCE POWER: The TCF Board of Directors reserves the right to modify the fund's terms if the restrictions become unnecessary, unfulfillable, or inconsistent with community needs.

FUNDING: Initial funding from the Arvin Harsh family includes $3,500 from existing funds and a $1,500 donation, totaling $5,000. The Donor has five years to raise the required $10,000 to establish the grant fund. If the goal isn't met, the funds will be combined with other grant funds at the discretion of the Tucker Community Foundation Board.

BACKGROUND: The funds were initially raised in response to the Preston County Board of Education's recommendation to close the Aurora School. Arvin Harsh spearheaded a community campaign to keep the elementary school open, ensuring that local students have access to high-quality education. The Aurora School is classified as "Remote" because there are no other schools in the vicinity.