Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Henderson County Education Foundation
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As: HCEF
Mailing Address: 414 4th Ave. W.
City: Hendersonville
State: North Carolina
Postal Code: 28792
Main Phone: 8286975551
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.hcefnc.org
Employer ID Number: 58-1734733
Organization Tax Status: 501 (c) 3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 1/22/25
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Henderson County Pathfinders
Project Description:

The Henderson County Pathfinders Program (HCPP) is a mentorship initiative that pairs students in Henderson County Public Schools with community mentors to provide guidance and support throughout their academic journeys. The program focuses on helping students navigate challenges, set goals, and build essential skills for their future success.

HCPP began in one feeder zone, which includes one middle school and one high school. The program plans to expand by adding one new feeder zone each year until all four feeder zones are included, covering a total of four middle schools and five high schools. This phased approach ensures sustainable growth and allows the program to develop strong mentorship models in each area before scaling further.

To support this expansion, the program has submitted a $10,000 funding request to provide furniture and office supplies, ensuring that the necessary resources are in place to accommodate additional staff and students as it grows.

Mentors meet with students individually every other month, focusing on grade-specific topics such as academic planning, college and career readiness, and personal development. For example, mentors might guide 8th graders through high school course selection or help 11th graders prepare for college entrance exams. These structured interactions are supported by resources like transcripts, grades, and online learning platforms, enabling mentors to provide personalized and effective support.

To ensure the program’s success, mentors are thoroughly trained and required to complete annual background checks. They also participate in ongoing professional development covering topics such as community resources, scholarship opportunities, and workforce trends.

HCPP emphasizes inclusivity by supporting a diverse student population, including those from underrepresented groups. The program’s long-term vision is to empower students to achieve their full potential, whether their path leads to college, vocational training, or direct entry into the workforce.

By fostering strong mentor-student relationships and expanding its reach across the county, the Henderson County Pathfinders Program is creating lasting impacts on students, schools, and the community at large.

Total Project Budget: 97,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): 50,000 committed by Dogwood Foundation

Project Duration: An annual program designed to continue indefinitely, contingent upon ongoing funding.
Geographical Area Served: Henderson County, NC
Age Group To Be Served: 7-12th graders

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Peggy
Contact Last Name: Marshall
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 8286975551
Contact Email: peggy@hcefnc.org