Dream Big campaign raises record-breaking $321,078 in donations, pledges

QUINCY — The Quincy Public Schools Foundation ended its 2022 Dream Big annual campaign on a high note, raising a record-breaking $321,078.62 in donations and pledges. The total exceeds last year’s record of $310,551. The campaign total was announced during halftime at the Lincoln vs. Quincy boys basketball game on Saturday, Jan. 14. 

“We are incredibly grateful to the community for the support they have shown for our students, teachers and administrators.  The additional funds this will provide to the school district creates so many opportunities,” Executive Director Heidi Lanier said. “This is an exciting time at Quincy Public Schools, and the funds from this campaign will go a long way in enhancing the QPS experience.”  

This year’s campaign was chaired by QHS alumni Todd & Michelle Moore ’82. The initial goal of the campaign was $200,000.  

“It was incredible to see how the community came together to support this year’s Dream Big campaign. As a person who spent my career in education, I know firsthand what an impact these funds make in our classrooms,” Michelle Moore said. “Todd and I were honored to be a part of helping to raise valuable funds for our schools.”

“It was a great experience being involved with the campaign this year,” Todd Moore said. “The foundation is doing great work for our schools, and we were happy to help however we could. We are thrilled with this year’s results and look forward to seeing the impact these dollars make.”

Proceeds from this year’s campaign will be allocated to the five “pillars” of the foundation: curriculum, technology, fine arts, athletics and endowment, operations of the foundation and special projects within the district. A portion of the money donated will benefit new and existing Circles of Investment, per the donor’s wishes. 

The foundation makes annual grants to teachers, schools and the district administration in fulfillment of their mission. The foundation provided more than $260,000 of support to the Quincy Public Schools during the last fiscal year.

The QPS Foundation continues to encourage donations for Circles of Investment — endowment funds benefitting specific designations across the school district. Contributions may be made at any time to support existing circles. 

Gifts to the Dream Big campaign should be made to QPS Foundation. They can be sent via postal mail to the foundation office at Quincy High School or online via the Foundation’s website, qpsfoundation.org. Mobile device users may donate by texting “QPSF” to 44-321.