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 for 2024 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?

The Cardinal Foundation secured fiscal sponsorship from the Winona Community Foundation (WCF) in 2024. The WCF is a public charity that provides philanthropic services to Winona and its surrounding communities. One of the greatest benefits of this partnership is WCF's expertise in financial and investment management which provides donors flexible, efficient, and tax-effective ways to ensure you achieve the greatest possible impact with your charitable giving.

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!

Please visit our VOLUNTEERS page to view all of our greatly appreciated individuals who have supported us.