FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Lake Washington Schools Foundation?

The mission of the Lake Washington Schools Foundation is to raise funds and amplify community resources to provide students in Lake Washington School District what they need to thrive, both now and in the future.

The Lake Washington Schools Foundation launched in 2005 after a dedicated group of community members joined together, committed to working with Redmond, Kirkland, and Sammamish parents, businesses, and community leaders in support of our future–the students in the Lake Washington School District. The State funds basic education, but our District sets a higher bar for its students and the Foundation supports those higher standards.

Why should I support the Lake Washington Schools Foundation?

The Lake Washington Schools Foundation is uniquely positioned to address critical needs and support essential programs within the District, stepping in to fill the gaps when Federal and state funding fall short. Our Foundation is dedicated to ensuring that every student has access to the resources and opportunities needed to succeed, by mobilizing community support and resources to make up for these funding deficiencies. This commitment positions us as a key partner in the educational ecosystem, actively contributing to the well-being and future success of our students.

Since its inception, the Foundation has raised and directed millions of dollars to district-wide programs and projects that prepare each of our district’s students for school and for life. Learn more about the work that is funded by our supportive community.

Our work is only made possible by the generosity and support of our community.

What is the Be the Bridge Spring Benefit and why should I attend?

Be the Bridge is Lake Washington Schools Foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year, rallying sponsorships and donations that support a wide range of transformative programs for students and families in the Lake Washington School District. By attending, you will get a glimpse into our programs and funding initiatives at work, listen to inspiring stories of impact, and witness how your contributions make a difference to the students in our community.

Who can attend this event?

We warmly invite all individuals who are passionate about supporting local students to join us! Historically, our gatherings have been enriched by the presence of a diverse group of attendees, including parents, volunteers, and staff members from both within and beyond the Lake Washington School District. Each year, we are also honored to welcome leaders from the school district, representatives from local government, corporate sponsors, and community partners to our event. Be the Bridge is a unique opportunity for individuals united by a common goal—to achieve the Lake Washington Schools Foundation’s mission of empowering students to thrive, both now and in the future.

Be the Bridge is LWSF’s biggest annual source of funding. This event is free to attend and we encourage every attendee to donate as generously as possible. The minimum suggested donation is $250

How do I register?

Online registration for this event is complimentary and opens soon!

What if I am not available to attend?

If your heart aligns with our mission but you find yourself unable to attend the event, we warmly invite you to contribute through our online donation platform, available soon. Your generous support plays a crucial role in helping us reach our fundraising targets for the event, ensuring that our efforts can continue to positively impact students across all schools. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant difference in our ability to enrich and support the educational journey of our students.