It all began with a small gift inside a shoe box.

Join the Shoe Box Society

Inspired by Dr. Jim Parsley, the Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools’ (FVPS) very first superintendent when it was founded in 1988, the Shoe Box Society comprises compassionate, committed, and forward-thinking people who come together for planned and legacy giving to ensure the purpose, values, and vision of FVPS makes a positive and lasting impact on future generations. 
 
More than 35 years ago, in 1988, Dr. Jim Parsley learned of a student who didn’t have access to an adequate pair of shoes for walking to school each day. On his own, Dr. Parsley purchased a pair of shoes for the student. This small act of compassion inspired fellow teachers and educators around him to want to contribute in similar ways and so they began collecting money in a shoe box to support VPS students when needs arose. What began as a single act of kindness quickly became a building block to something bigger, and soon, a foundation was created that would blossom into decades of incredible work. Over the years, it has touched the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of students and families, offering hope, support, and opportunities for a brighter future.
 
We invite you to walk in the footsteps of those who have made a difference and shape the journey ahead by being a part of the Shoe Box Society and including the Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools in your planned and legacy giving.

There are a couple of ways to join the Shoe Box Society:

  • Commit to donating the value of a pair of shoes each year OR
  • Become a monthly donor

As a Shoe Box Society Member you will receive an exclusive quarterly newsletter that shares stories of impact, as well as how you can “increase your status” in the Shoe Box Society. Additionally, thanks to the generosity of McCord’s Vancouver Toyota, a pair of shoes will be given to a VPS student for each active member of the society!

All money received from Shoe Box Society Members will go towards our general fund.

Join the Shoe Box Society Today!

For the inaugural year of the Shoe Box Society, Waste Connections & a couple of anonymous donors have pledged to match YOUR first year of giving, up to a collective total of $5,000!

There are many ways to make a meaningful gift through planned giving. Please reach out to discuss your charitable intentions so we can ensure your gift is used just as you wish. You can contact us through the form below to let us know about your intentions or to request more information. You may also contact Jenny Thompson, Executive Director by phone at 360-313-4723.

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Our federal tax ID number is 91-0971800.
Our full legal name is Vancouver School District Foundation #37.

Our development staff and professional advisory committee are happy to provide detailed information, including draft language, for attorneys or other advisors regarding gifts to the Foundation for Vancouver Public Schools. We welcome the opportunity to assist you as you work with your clients to address their philanthropic goals.

Please contact us so that we can provide you the exact information you need.

Ready to make a lasting impact for Vancouver youth?

  • Contact Jenny Thompson, Executive Director, at 360-313-4723 or jenny.thompson@vansd.org to chat more about the personal benefits of planned giving or let us know of your intent.
  • Seek the advice of your financial advisor, legal advisor, or tax professional.
  • If you include the Foundation for VPS in your plans,  please use our legal name: Vancouver School District Foundation #37 and federal tax ID: 91-0971800.


Together, we are creating opportunities to enrich the educational experience for generations of students in Vancouver Public Schools.  On behalf of our youth, families, and educators, Thank you!