Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Cardinal Foundation?

The Cardinal Foundation (CF) was established in 2024 as a non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve and enhance the educational and extracurricular experiences in the Lewiston-Altura Public School District by funding projects and activities that provide innovative learning opportunities for L-A students. We believe in and support the excellence of the L-A Public Schools.

Why is a foundation necessary for a public school system?

Taxpayer's dollars and state funding are used primarily to support the ongoing operational costs of our school. Unfortunately, this leaves our public schools with many unmet needs and unfulfilled opportunities. The Cardinal Foundation works to bridge this funding gap to support the necessary expenses needed to achieve excellence in the classroom, on stage, and on various competitive courts and fields.

Is the Cardinal Foundation part of the school district?

The Cardinal Foundation partners with The Winona Community Foundation which is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and operates independently from Lewiston-Altura Public Schools. The Foundation works closely with educators and the Superintendent of the public school to ensure we are promoting and funding programs and activities that are not receiving any other sources of support or funding.

What kinds of programs and activities does the Foundation fund?

Our goal is to preserve programs and activities that provide excellence in the classroom, on stage, and on various competitive courts and fields. These programs would include career development, elective courses, foreign languages, music and band opportunities, co-op athletic programs and much more.

How does the Cardinal Foundation award funds?

Students, Staff, and Teachers of ISD 857 are invited to submit grant applications each year for programs, activities, and projects for their classroom, grade level, or school. After superintendent approval, completed grant applications are reviewed by the Cardinal Foundation Board of Directors. The Board of Directors is an advisory committee responsible for making recommendations to the Winona Community Foundation for distributions from the Cardinal Foundation fund. They use specific criteria and guidelines for grant approvals, please visit the GRANTS page of this website for listed criteria.

Why partner with the Winona Community Foundation?

Choosing to partner with an established organization like the Winona Community Foundation (WCF) instead of obtaining a separate 501(c)(3) status involves several strategic considerations.

Cost and Administrative Efficiency: Obtaining and maintaining a 501(c)(3) status involves significant costs and time commitments, including startup fees, compliance with IRS regulations, reporting requirements, and annual tax filings. By partnering with the WCF, the Cardinal Foundation benefits from WCF’s established infrastructure. As a volunteer organization with no paid staff or accountants, the Cardinal Foundation relies on WCF for essential accounting software and expertise. This allows us to comply with IRS guidelines efficiently, without incurring the additional costs and administrative burdens.
Access to Resources and Networks: WCF has access to a broad network of donors, community leaders, and other resources that can be beneficial for the Cardinal Foundation. They provide opportunities for collaboration, increased visibility, and access to funding sources that might be more challenging to secure independently.
Streamlined Fund Management: WCF offers fund management services. This can streamline financial operations for the Cardinal Foundation, allowing us to focus more on our mission and activities rather than on financial management. In Q2 alone, the investment benefits from our partnership with WCF covered the cost of our fees.
Compliance and Oversight: Partnering with WCF ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and best practices in nonprofit management. WCF has established procedures and oversight mechanisms to ensure proper handling of funds and adherence to legal and ethical standards.
Focus on Mission: By partnering with WCF, the Cardinal Foundation can concentrate more on our mission rather than on the complexities of nonprofit administration. This can lead to more effective use of time and resources.

Initially, we decided to partner with the Winona Community Foundation due to our limited knowledge in the nonprofit sector. WCF provided us with a quick startup and valuable support on the path to achieving our own 501(c)(3) status. However, we are finding that the benefits of partnering with WCF far outweigh the costs. As we continue to grow, we will keep monitoring the arrangement, but the experience has been very pleasant and helpful so far.

Why should you donate to the Cardinal Foundation?

Donating to the Foundation is vital to continuing the educational and extracurricular experiences for students in the L-A school district. A strong, financially stable public school benefits all members in the community.

The Cardinal Foundation provides a platform for community members to make a tax-exempt contribution that will remain in the community and have an immediate and lasting impact. Donations in any amount are appreciated and can be made in memory of someone. We encourage you to visit the Winona Community Foundation website for more information on donations in the form of wills, trusts, estates, stocks and annuities.

Visit our DONOR LIST page to recognize all of our generous donors.

How else can I help?

We welcome anyone who would like to donate time, energy, or talent to help us meet our goals. Join our team of volunteers who share a passion for public education. Please visit the CONTACT US page to share your interests. We look forward to hearing your ideas and input, please consider joining us at our next meeting!