At SEF, we believe that giving back to the community is essential to being human. That's why on November 15th, we join thousands of people worldwide in celebrating National Philanthropy Day. It's a day to honor the accomplishments, big and small, that philanthropy and those involved in the process bring to our society and our world.

The concept of celebrating philanthropy was initiated by Douglas Freeman in the 1980s, and it was officially recognized in the U.S. when President Ronald Reagan proclaimed November 15th as National Philanthropy Day.

We are proud to be a part of this celebration and to recognize the spirit of giving that has made SEF possible.

For almost forty years, SEF has relied solely on private donations to fund our programs, which impact thousands of students with disabilities each year in St. Louis County. We are grateful to our charitable givers for their generosity and for sharing our vision of helping students with disabilities achieve success in and beyond the classroom.

Thank you for being a part of our mission to make the world a better place, one student at a time.

Philanthropy comes in many ways.

It may be through through donations to support our mission.

Or it may be through giving the gift of time and talent to help SEF as a volunteer, board member, or serving on a committee.

Philanthropy fosters a culture of generosity and civic engagement as donors and volunteers become more aware of the needs and challenges of their communities and the world and feel more empowered to make a difference.

We are grateful to the more than 1,000 individuals, businesses, and foundations that support SEF with donations, sponsorships, and through their volunteer efforts to help students with disabilities.

On National Philanthropy Day on November 15th, we celebrate all those who give and thank you for your generosity.

“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.”

- Maya Angelou