The crisp mountain air and the vibrant energy of our students are hallmarks of Mt. Ellis Academy. Here, amidst the stunning backdrop of the Rockies, young hearts and minds are nurtured, challenged, and prepared for a life of purpose. But the vibrant tapestry of opportunity we weave here – from hands-on learning in our student work program to life-changing experiences in Outdoor School and the thrill of Ski the Summit – relies on a vital thread: our Annual Fund.
This year, that thread is thinner than we hoped. Due to unforeseen circumstances, our giving has fallen short, leaving us with a critical $150,000 gap to bridge by the end of the year. This isn’t just a number; it represents the very experiences that define a Christ-centered Mt. Ellis Academy education and shape the lives of our students.
Imagine a student earning their tuition through the student work program, gaining invaluable skills and a sense of responsibility alongside their academic growth. Picture the impact of church matching grants and distance scholarships, opening doors to deserving students who might otherwise not have the chance to experience our unique community. Consider the dedication of our faculty, continually honing their skills through professional development and training to provide an exceptional learning environment.
The Annual Fund is the lifeblood that sustains all of this and more. It fuels:
- The Student Work Program: Providing crucial financial aid and hands-on learning opportunities.
- Church Matching and Distance Scholarships: Expanding access to a diverse student body.
- Faculty Development and Training: Ensuring our educators remain at the forefront of their fields.
- Essential Operating Costs: Keeping the lights on, the classrooms warm, and our campus running smoothly.
- New Program Development: Allowing us to innovate and offer relevant, engaging learning experiences.
- Enhancement of Extracurricular Programs: From the camaraderie of our athletic program to the adventure of Ski the Summit and Outdoor School, the resilience built in Senior Survival, and the lifelong skills learned in Lifetime Activities (LTAs) – these experiences shape well-rounded individuals.
- Maintenance and Improvement of Campus Facilities: Providing a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment for learning and growth.
A shortfall of $150,000 isn’t just a budget concern; it directly impacts our ability to provide these crucial elements that make Mt. Ellis Academy so special. It means potential limitations on student work opportunities, fewer scholarships for deserving students, and constraints on the enriching extracurricular activities that build character and create lasting memories. It challenges our capacity to invest in our dedicated faculty and maintain the beautiful campus that serves as a home away from home for our students.
This is where you come in.
Your gift to the Annual Fund is more than just a donation; it’s an investment in the lives of our students, the strength of our community, and the future of Mt. Ellis Academy’s ministry. It’s a lifeline that will help us bridge this critical gap and ensure the continued sustainability and growth of our school.
Every dollar contributed directly impacts a student’s journey, empowers our faculty, and strengthens the foundation of our academy. By joining together, we can ensure that the vibrant opportunities that define a Mt. Ellis Academy education remain accessible for generations to come.
Will you partner with us to bridge this gap and empower the future of Mt. Ellis Academy? Your generous gift, in any amount, will make a tangible difference and help us reach our $150,000 goal. Let’s ensure that the heart of Mt. Ellis Academy continues to beat strong, providing a bridge to opportunity for all our students.
Give today and be a vital part of their story.