Empowering Education: The Henrico Education Foundation's Programs
The Henrico Education Foundation (HEF) stands as a vital independent nonprofit organization, working in close collaboration with Henrico County Public Schools. Supporting over 48,000 students across 74 educational facilities, the foundation plays a crucial role in enhancing educational opportunities and fostering student success. Since its inception in 1993, HEF has contributed almost $10 million in direct funding, impacting more than 650,000 students, teachers, parents, and guardians throughout Henrico County.
A Commitment to Innovative Education
HEF goes beyond simply providing additional funding; it acts as an innovator, partnering with parents, teachers, and administrators to identify and develop transformative initiatives that improve school performance and ensure student success. The foundation is dedicated to empowering Henrico County Public Schools employees who bring visionary educational ideas to life. HEF believes in the power of innovation and creativity to ignite educational advancement. Their vision extends beyond academic achievement, aiming to prepare every student for success in life. By equipping students with critical thinking, problem-solving skills, resilience, and adaptability, they ensure students are "LifeReady" for an ever-changing society.
LifeReady Solutions Signature Funding Program
Formerly known as Innovative Grants, this program supports educators with innovative ideas. The program focuses on projects that deliver clear, measurable outcomes and address the needs of challenged students. By leveraging technology to foster 21st-century learning, the program aims to uplift every student, enhancing both their achievement and self-confidence. The application process is designed to be straightforward, providing support for innovative ideas without complicated forms or confusing processes.
Out-of-School Programming
The Henrico Education Foundation is committed to providing exceptional out-of-school programming for students across Henrico County.
21st Century Programs
These grant-funded after-school programs aim to improve student learning and build stronger families and healthier communities. They offer academic tutoring and a wide variety of enrichment activities designed to increase and support student achievement, attendance, and positive behaviors during the school day and after school. These programs operate at no cost to families through grant funds.
Read also: HCPS Overview
Learning & Discovery Program
This fee-based after-school program provides enriching experiences in a safe, affordable environment. The program hosts activities for ten elementary schools and awards scholarships to financially disadvantaged students. Programs feature activities tailored to each school’s unique needs, developed in collaboration with school leadership, staff, and students. Through these initiatives, HEF fosters academic growth and creates stronger, more vibrant educational communities. Students are assigned to groups of approximately 12-15, based on similar grade levels. The L&D program operates each afternoon that school is in session from school dismissal until 6 pm.
Summer Adventure Lab
The Learning & Discovery Adventure Lab Program transforms each day into a new hands-on adventure. Students head out on a different field trip every day, exploring everything from innovation labs and art galleries to nature centers, local farms, climbing gyms, sports clinics, and even amusement parks. Each experience is designed to spark curiosity, build real-world connections, and keep students actively engaged. This program provides learning through adventure.
The program runs Monday-Thursday with specific timings, and is designed for rising 3rd-6th graders. Due to the uniqueness of this program only a limited number of students are able to attend each session.
Summer Exploration Labs
The Learning & Discovery Exploration Lab programs offer students a full day to explore exciting activities and connect with new friends. Families can choose the location that works best for them.
2025-2026 Afterschool Program
The program serves a number of elementary schools. Programs offer an afternoon snack, homework help, and teacher/vendor lead excursion opportunities for students to explore new experiences. All programs run on scheduled school days until 6pm.
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Financial Assistance
HEF offers Financial Assistance to families that qualify.
The Foundation's Impact
HEF funds creative instructional approaches with strong academic goals that directly address the opportunity gap and provide resources for teachers to support the most vulnerable students. The foundation’s unique role is vital to meeting the educational needs of the community’s children while providing partnership opportunities for businesses, community leaders and citizens to directly impact public schools.
HEF has been a great thought-partner and resource to positively impact the lives of scholars and the school community, appreciating HEF’s commitment to excellence, service and building a brighter future.
Giving to HEF
Giving to the Henrico Education Foundation (HEF) is one of the most effective ways to support children’s schools. Funds raised by HEF come from people who care about education.
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