What is the Hastings Catholic Education Foundation?

Hasting Catholic Education Foundation, or HCEF,  initially started as an endowment fund established in 1985. The purpose of the endowment fund was to create a fund that would help support the operating expenses of Hastings Parochial School. 

In July of 2018, the endowment fund was changed to a Foundation and a Board of Directors was developed. The change was made to ensure that all funds raised would be protected and used solely for the support of Catholic education.  

How is the Foundation funded?

Currently, money is raised through the annual Spring Fling and donations from people who believe strongly in the benefits of Catholic education. 

What is the money used for?

Over the years, money raised has been used for two main purposes; growing the fund and supporting St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School, or SEAS. In recent years, $25,000-$35,000 has been given to SEAS school on an annual basis for general operating expenses. Money raised at Spring Fling is also used for teacher grants and the annual Fund-a-Need. The rest is used to grow the fund. HCEF now has a value of approximately $1,000,000. 

How are Teacher Grants awarded?

Each year, teachers are given the opportunity to submit grant requests. The requests are reviewed by a group of volunteers and are awarded at a mass during the 1st quarter of the school year. 

How can I participate?

There are many ways to support the Foundation. In addition to Foundation board members, there are dozens of people who volunteer each year to help us with the  Spring Fling. Donations to the Foundation are tax-deductible and may be made in the form of checks, stock, or bonds. We also encourage donations in memory of someone or in honor of a special teacher or student.