What We Do

Our Impact This Year

For more than 42 years, the Special Education Foundation (SEF) has been removing barriers and creating opportunities for students with disabilities throughout St. Louis County. The 2026 fiscal year was marked by generosity, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to ensuring every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Thanks to the dedication of our donors, partners, volunteers, and advocates, SEF continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of thousands of students and their families.

During the 2026 fiscal year, SEF impacted more than 8,050 students through programs that provided critical resources, educational opportunities, and life-changing experiences beyond what tax dollars can fund. From funding 65 Classroom Innovation Grants that benefited 5,490 students, to bringing enriching Arts in the Classroom experiences to approximately 1,386 students, SEF empowered educators to create engaging and inclusive learning environments.

Working alongside the Special School District of St. Louis County, SEF continued to meet students' most urgent needs. Through our Adaptive & Assistive Equipment Program, students received hearing aids, communication devices, eyeglasses, and other specialized equipment that improved communication, mobility, and independence. Our S.A.F.E. (Student Aid Fund for Emergencies) Program provided food, clothing, hygiene items, and other essential supports to hundreds of students and families facing unexpected hardships. The Kid-to-Camp Program helped children participate in enriching summer experiences, while the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy and Autism Independence Project continued to equip students with leadership, social, and independent living skills that prepare them for future success.

This year also marked the continued growth of SEF's programming. Building on the success of the Fred Saigh Leadership Academy, SEF will launch the Junior Leaders Academy Pilot Program during the 2026–2027 school year. Made possible by a generous $20,000 grant from the PwC Foundation, the pilot program will serve SSD's middle school students through three monthly interactive sessions focused on communication, teamwork, self-advocacy, problem-solving, and leadership. By introducing leadership development at an earlier age, the Junior Leaders Academy will help students build confidence, discover their strengths, and develop the skills needed to become future leaders in their schools and communities.

Fundraising and community engagement reached new heights during the fiscal year. The 23rd Annual Dan McLaughlin Charity Golf Tournament and Auction once again brought together generous sponsors, donors, and volunteers to raise critical funds supporting SEF programs. We also celebrated the 3rd Annual Starfish Awards, recognizing exceptional educators, staff, volunteers, and community partners whose compassion and dedication create lasting change for students with disabilities.

As we look toward another year of service, we remain inspired by the generosity of our community and the resilience of the students and families we serve. Together, we are creating opportunities, removing barriers, and building brighter futures for thousands of children across St. Louis County. Thank you for believing in SEF's mission and for making an extraordinary impact on every student we have the privilege to serve.