2025 – 2026 Annual Report
Student Support Foundation
club members are learning
the skills and joys of giving.
This year, we welcomed five new chapters into the Student Support Foundation family, celebrated three long-standing chapters earning $25,000 Dream Big grants, and visited clubs across the country where students are making philanthropy their own.
Every chapter starts with the same guidelines, and while they share ideas with one another, ultimately each club opts to focus their efforts on something different.
This is what continues to excite us about SSF. Students aren't following a formula—they’re listening to their communities and morphing to fit individual needs. Some build partnerships with local businesses. Others create new fundraising opportunities or strengthen existing campus resources. What works great at one school may fall flat at another.
As we talked with students, they spoke about the lives they had impacted and what they were learning from doing the philanthropic work. They described difficult grant discussions, weighing competing priorities, respectfully disagreeing with one another, and making thoughtful decisions with limited resources. They spoke about the responsibility that comes with stewarding money and the confidence they've gained by working through challenges as a team. Many told us they’ll carry these lessons and experiences with them into their future endeavors.
When John and I launched the Student Support Foundation, we hoped students would discover the joy of giving. What continues to surprise us is everything else they gain along the way. They leave with stronger decision-making skills, a deeper understanding of their communities, and the ability to listen to differing perspectives while working toward a common goal. That gives us tremendous hope for the future.
Thank you for taking the ordinary and adding your own special flair to it, for digging deeper into your community and solving issues in a meaningful way. It’s because of you that we get to call this a remarkable year.
With gratitude,
Carrie and John Morgridge
Co-founders
Since SSF’s inception in 2003…
$1,155,434
invested by MFF
126,260
raised by schools
$1,529,587
distributed by schools
$426,540
people impacted by SSF grants
IN 2025-2026, WE HAD 19 SSF CLUBS AT THE HIGH SCHOOL AND COLLEGE LEVEL, WITH 372 MEMBERS.
WHAT STUDENTS SAID ABOUT SSF THIS YEAR :
“You never know what someone is going through or if they are in need of help, but doing little things can have the biggest impact on someone.”
“I’ve gained a greater passion for service and leadership. I’ve learned how much I love helping the community and would love to pursue working with nonprofits beyond college.”
“It really touched me to help my fellow students on campus. I know what it feels like to not have the funds for basic needs; it takes a lot for them to reach out and ask for help.”
“I continue to be a part of this club because I love that I can create meaningful change in my school as a student. I also love that I can build relationships with teachers regarding the projects they are passionate about.”
Moments from the 2025–2026 school year
2025–2026 SSF School Chapters
5280 High School
Founded: 2026 | Denver, CO
5280 High School is a small, alternative high school in Denver, Colorado, that was specifically designed to support students in recovery from substance use or other mental health challenges. The club sponsors reached out to MFF midyear after researching opportunities to engage students in philanthropy.
The sponsors were excited for students to explore their philanthropic values and build something truly impactful for the students. The club members felt strongly that it was in the spirit of their school to support community wellness, build community connection through events, and invest in improvements to make classrooms more comfortable for students and teachers.
After working together on the scoring rubric and grant application, students identified funding priorities. These were challenging conversations that the group worked through by reminding themselves that working together and, yes, compromising, would help them uncover the best ways to support their community.
Though they were still working through approving their first grants at the end of this past school year, the group was still able to raise money for their club: Members contributed artwork to the school’s 5280 Art Fund Gala and split the proceeds from those pieces, with half going directly to SSF.
“What I’ve learned is that you don’t only do it for the money, but for what your community really needs, and I learned what it felt like helping other clubs.”
Alta Vista Campus
Founded: 2025 | Dubuque, IA
This was Alta Vista Campus's first year as an SSF chapter, following the program’s success at other schools in the same district. As an alternative learning center, the club's sponsors saw this as an opportunity for students to feel seen and supported and build community.
Students were most excited to use their grant dollars to purchase items for Brain Break Baskets for their classrooms. They spoke with their teachers and peers to learn which fidget tools and visuals would be most useful when students needed a quick break and/or a way to help focus their brains on learning. Then they worked with the school’s robotics team to design and 3D print a variety of fidgets. The dollars they granted for the robotics team to make fidgets supported both the school and robotics. The club also expanded its reach by partnering with Brain Health Now to secure even more squishies and visuals. In total, they generated 25 baskets, all ready for classrooms.
Another benefit: There was an increase in school attendance among the SSF students.
“I’ve improved my skills in teamwork; I’ve also developed some leadership skills and communication skills. I also learned the importance of mental health, not just for teens but for everyone. I feel like we not only helped our school, but we are also helping each other, building skills, being more out in the open, making memories, and building strong bonds with each other.”
Arrupe Jesuit High School
Founded: 2024 | Denver, CO
In their second year, students in the Arrupe Jesuit High School SSF Club focused on supporting clubs, sports, and teachers. Due to a lack of resources, few clubs or sports were offered at the school previously. With the support of SSF, that’s changing. One of the grants awarded this year was for a new theater club, for example. Additionally, SSF used some of its grant funds to help teachers enroll in professional development courses—an opportunity to become better educators and resources for students without directly burdening the school.
At sporting events, students noticed there were no concessions available and thought that would make a great fundraiser. They hosted a stand that proved immensely popular, raising nearly double the program’s required $250 minimum—$482 in total. They also began partnering with other clubs at the school to show them how to fundraise using the concession stand as well.
The group is currently focused on recruiting students from younger grades to ensure the club is sustainable and has the greatest impact on the entire school.
“What I’ve learned is that you don’t only do it for the money, but for what your community really needs, and I learned what it felt like to help other clubs.”
Bishop McNamara High School
Founded: 2025 | Forestville, MD
In its inaugural year, Bishop McNamara High School's SSF club paired the SSF model with lessons in financial and social capital, giving students firsthand experience raising money, managing a budget, and making thoughtful decisions about how resources could best serve their school community. Through every discussion, they discovered that philanthropy requires both generosity and responsibility.
Those lessons came to life as members reviewed grant applications. Students quickly realized the importance of asking thoughtful questions, gathering enough information before making decisions, and carefully balancing budgets. They learned that every dollar represented an opportunity to make a meaningful difference.
One of the chapter's first grants supported the school's swim team; it allowed more students to participate regardless of their financial circumstances. Members also recognized that many teachers were personally covering costs for their clubs and classrooms, leading the chapter to invest in educators whose commitments directly benefited students. By the end of the year, students had gained more than experience in grantmaking—they had developed a deeper understanding of how thoughtful philanthropy can strengthen an entire school community.
“I have learned the impact that grants made around the community can not only fund essential resources but also strengthen our school.”
Bridgewater College
Founded: 2015 | Bridgewater, VA
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Bridgewater College’s SSF chapter has spent more than a decade helping students overcome unexpected financial barriers through emergency grants. After ten years, clubs are eligible for a Dream Big Grant this year, which honors clubs with funding up to $25,000 for a project. Bridgewater members reflected on everything they had learned from those requests and recognized a pattern: Students weren't just asking for help with school expenses—they were looking for food, hygiene products, transportation, and other everyday essentials that help them stay in school and focused on their education.
Rather than continuing to respond to one need at a time, members envisioned a lasting solution. Their Dream Big Grant will support the creation of The Perch, a student-led resource hub named after Bridgewater's eagle mascot. Opening in fall 2026, the welcoming campus space will provide heat-and-eat meals, hygiene products, school supplies, transportation gift cards, and dining hall vouchers. Students will be able to access essential resources as needed, without fear of judgment.
For many graduating seniors, the project represents the culmination of four years spent learning what it means to lead through philanthropy. Developing The Perch required students to gather input from campus leaders, weigh competing ideas, and build partnerships that would guarantee the resource could thrive long after the initial investment. As one student reflected, "It showed me what's possible when a group is committed to a shared goal and willing to put in the work to make it happen."
By transforming years of individual grantmaking into a permanent campus resource, Bridgewater's SSF chapter is leaving a legacy that will support students for years to come.
“Programs like SSF allow us to support fellow students in meaningful ways and also teach us what it means to be responsible and compassionate members of a community. Being part of this program has been an incredibly valuable experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to work that makes a direct difference in the lives of others.”
Dr. Howard Fuller Collegiate Academy
Founded: 2024 | Milwaukee, WI
During its second year, Dr. Howard Fuller Collegiate Academy's SSF chapter continued to grow while staying focused on what mattered most: caring for its community. Members supported schoolmates through classroom grants, expanded their giving beyond the high school for the first time with a grant to a middle school cooking club, and looked for opportunities to strengthen the people who uplift their school community.
One of the chapter's most meaningful grants provided support to a teacher who experienced an unimaginable series of hardships, including the loss of close family members and a house fire. While the financial assistance couldn't undo what they experienced, it served as a reminder that their school community was there to support them during an incredibly difficult time. The grant also reflected the chapter's belief that caring for educators is another way of caring for students.
As the chapter matured, students became more thoughtful in their grantmaking. Rather than simply approving or denying requests, they asked deeper questions, suggested improvements, and worked alongside applicants to make their applications more impactful. It was all in pursuit of the same goal: helping people feel seen, supported, and valued.
“I joined SSF to be part of something bigger and make a real difference in my community. I stay because of the impact we make and the people who motivate me to keep growing and doing better.”
Dubuque Online School
Founded: 2025 | Dubuque, IA
As the only online SSF chapter, Dubuque Online School demonstrated that a strong sense of community can exist regardless of where students learn. Members thoughtfully considered how every grant could make a difference and learned how to make decisions that balance compassion with impact.
One grant in particular left a lasting impression. Early in the school year, members learned that a classmate was undergoing treatment for Stage 4 cancer. Despite the club’s structure still being in the works, they quickly approved a grant to create a care basket for the student and came together to write notes of encouragement. They went beyond simply approving a grant by finding ways to remind their classmate that they were not facing this challenge alone. The experience reinforced the idea that genuine connection and care can transcend physical distance.
Members gained a lot from their grantmaking experiences too: They reflected on developing teamwork skills, appreciating how thoughtful philanthropy can strengthen a community, and discovering the lasting value of service. Several shared that their experiences with SSF have become integral to their future plans; they’re inspired to continue volunteering in college and beyond. They’ll carry forward the belief that generosity—whether through time, resources, or encouragement—can change lives.
“It’s important to remind people in your own community that all challenges undergone are not experienced alone.”
Dubuque Senior High School
Founded: 2019 | Dubuque, IA
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Dubuque Senior High School's SSF chapter continued building a culture of care by supporting students both inside and outside of the classroom. This year, the seven-year-old group maintained and fundraised for The Giving Room, which provides clothing, food, hygiene products, and other essentials to students in need, and awarded grants that removed barriers for individual student participation and supported clubs, activities, and classrooms.
Several grants left a lasting impression on members. The chapter helped cover the cost of a student's wisdom teeth removal, recognizing that access to necessary healthcare could not wait. They purchased track spikes for another student so they could fully participate in a sport they loved. While the grants varied in size, each one spread the message that the recipient had the support of the school community.
After welcoming 35 new members at the start of the year, it became even more important to encourage active participation and maintain member engagement, which the group is consistently doing through open communication, a focus on teamwork, and productive conversations about the issues facing their local community and how they can impact them in a meaningful way.
“Collaborating with others can make a huge impact in your school, no matter how small the act.”
Dunnellon High School
Founded: 2015 | Dunnellon, FL
A student wanted to recognize the school's hardworking custodial staff. After learning that a new vacuum cleaner was needed, Dunnellon High School's SSF chapter stepped in to purchase one. It was one of many practical grants the group awarded during its 11th year. The chapter also funded an oven for the science department to help the teachers expand hands-on learning opportunities for their students.
As members reviewed grant requests from teachers, clubs, and school staff, they worked through questions about cost, quality, and how to make the most of the chapter’s funds. Those discussions gave students a firsthand look at the responsibility that comes with philanthropy and the importance of making every dollar count.
They also added to their resources by organizing creative fundraisers, including one for Valentine’s Day and a weekly donut sale, that brought in more than $1,400.
“I had seen [the school custodians] struggle with the super old [vacuum] the school had. When we gave them the new one, they were really excited. I was happy that we could help our school custodians.”
Hempstead High School
Hempstead High School is the largest SSF chapter and continued to grow this year, welcoming 75 new members. The group now totals an impressive 97 students. The chapter realized it needed to rethink operations to keep everyone engaged and active; they created smaller teams focused on service, fundraising, marketing, and communications so students could hone in on their interests. They also streamlined the grant review process by voting electronically before meetings, which allowed more time for collaboration and hands-on projects when they were in person together.
The chapter’s student-led Care Closet remained at the heart of its service, providing clothing, food, hygiene products, school supplies, and other essentials to students in need through a confidential request system. Members also supported local middle and elementary school students through a pen pal program and assembled holiday gift baskets for families in need.
Hempstead students continue to approach grantmaking with thoughtfulness and accountability. For example, while reviewing a request from the debate team, members asked for a detailed budget breakdown. After discussing the proposal, they approved part of the request and encouraged the team to fundraise for the remainder. The decision reflected a careful stewardship of grant funds and a commitment to supporting as many students as possible.
“Throughout my time in SSF, I’ve grown into a leader by taking initiative, supporting my teammates, and learning to guide projects effectively. It has taught me the importance of listening, collaboration, and leading by example.”
La Follette High School
Founded: 2008 | Madison, WI
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At La Follette High School, SSF members focused on creating access to opportunities for all students. The chapter invested in grants that helped students participate, connect, and succeed; removed financial barriers; or supported hands-on learning.
Among the year's most meaningful grants: providing funding for eye exams and glasses for five students. By working with the school's health office, the chapter was able to deliver crucial resources that will help those students fully engage in their studies. SSF members also supported their SkillsUSA club students, which focuses on career and technical education skills, by purchasing safety equipment that allowed more students to participate in hands-on STEM experiences and compete at the state and national level.
The chapter's commitment to building community extended beyond grantmaking. Students organized a fundraiser with drinks from different cultures that brought classmates and staff together to raise money for future grants. With a strong contingent of new members, the chapter is well positioned to continue expanding its impact across the La Follette community.
“I’ve learned that there are many different perspectives on the value of money and money usage.”
Madison East High School
Founded: 2012 | Madison, WI
After a five-year hiatus, Madison East High School’s SSF chapter began operating again in December 2025. A small group of students came together to relaunch the chapter and quickly resumed grantmaking while laying the foundation for future growth.
Equalizing opportunity is a guiding priority for the chapter as students work to ensure their peers can fully participate in school life. Other funding priorities include supporting student and community learning and developing future leadership opportunities. One grant that resonated deeply with members was used to hire a DJ for the Raza United club’s Baile Monarca dance. The funds helped create a space where students could celebrate Latino culture and connect with one another in a celebratory environment.
Members also recognized that some of the smallest grants can have the greatest impact, like helping one student afford a Quill and Scroll Honor Society membership. It was just $28, but it opened up a previously unavailable opportunity and was meaningful to that individual.
As they reestablished the chapter, students learned to stay flexible as grant requests evolved and needs changed. They also collaborated with other Madison–area SSF chapters to develop new fundraising ideas. The group is actively recruiting new members in the hopes of growing the chapter next year.
“I’ve learned that every person or thing we donate to has a story. Everyone has a reason behind why they need the money, and it’s really interesting to learn so much from different people.”
Olympia High School
Founded: 2003 | Olympia, FL
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Olympia High School’s SSF chapter continued supporting students across academics, athletics, and the arts while becoming more confident in their approach to grantmaking. Early in the school year, members faced difficult decisions as they reviewed a large number of requests from clubs seeking assistance with dues and fees. The process taught them the importance of asking pointed questions, considering alternate funding sources, and learning to say no when appropriate.
The awards the chapter did grant expanded opportunities for students across campus. Members helped send the Future Health Professionals club to the state competition, supported the ceramics program with matching funds for new materials and equipment repairs, and purchased new uniforms for the girls’ soccer team. For one student-athlete, the soccer support was especially meaningful because they weren't in a position to buy a new uniform, and the updated kits helped the team look successful and compete with pride.
When the chapter realized it still had funds available later in the year, members reached out to teachers and club sponsors to identify additional needs, ensuring every dollar was put to work supporting students.
“Cooperation is a very important part of making big decisions in life, and it helps you see things from every perspective.”
Plymouth State University
Plymouth State University's SSF chapter continued building lasting support systems for students by partnering with university leadership to identify key needs and generate solutions. This year, members established a Career Closet to provide students with free professional clothing for interviews, internships, career fairs, and other future-shaping opportunities. The resource ensures that financial barriers do not stand in the way of students pursuing their goals.
The chapter also hosted its annual Empty Bowls fundraiser in collaboration with the PSU ceramics program and dining services. The event brings together students, faculty, alumni, and community members to raise awareness and support for students experiencing food insecurity. Guests shared a meal and selected a handcrafted bowl to take home.
Beyond these initiatives, the chapter continued expanding its emergency financial grant program through strong partnerships and fundraising efforts. Working alongside the University Advancement office, alumni, and community supporters, members secured additional resources to help students facing unexpected hardships. Together, these efforts reflect a shared commitment between SSF and the university to ensure students have access to the support they need to succeed in and out of the classroom.
“A student was in need of a grant because of big medical expenses and for their living situation on campus. These are two very serious issues that I was glad to be able to help with.”
Rollins College
Founded: 2012 | Winter Park, FL
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At Rollins College, SSF has become more than a student organization—it is part of a campus-wide network designed to give students access to necessary resources. Through partnerships with Dining Services, the Student Outreach and Resource Center (SOAR), Advancement, and other campus organizations, members have created multiple pathways for students experiencing food insecurity, financial hardship, or unexpected emergencies to find support. Together, these relationships have helped build a culture where students know they don't have to face challenges alone.
That collaborative spirit was on full display throughout the year: A Swipe Out Hunger Grant with the on-campus food provider and dining services expanded continuous support for the on-campus pantry. Partnerships with alumni and the broader Rollins community added funding for the chapter’s emergency grants. And, through the college's Senior Class Gift campaign, students chose to leave behind a monetary legacy of support so future generations—classmates they will likely never meet—have access to help when they face unexpected challenges.
As the chapter grew, so did its approach to philanthropy. Members developed a grantmaking rubric to make funding decisions more consistent and equitable and learned that responsible giving requires both empathy and accountability. Whether helping a student buy textbooks, recover after a house fire, or navigate a medical emergency, members paired compassion with thoughtful stewardship—and reinforced the idea that meaningful philanthropy isn't just about raising money but about building relationships and earning trust.
“I have learned the power even small amounts of money and time can provide.”
Southern New Hampshire University
Founded: 2025 | Manchester, NH
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Before they got to work, Southern New Hampshire University's inaugural SSF chapter wanted to better understand the challenges students were facing and how familiar they were with existing campus resources. So the members surveyed their peers. The results shaped the chapter's priorities and helped direct funding where it could make the greatest difference; it also allowed the group to connect students with services already available on campus when appropriate, like pointing those facing food insecurity to the free Food Cupboard.
The chapter's first grants supported students experiencing food insecurity, transportation challenges, and other unexpected financial barriers. One of their initial approvals helped a student cover a car payment so they could get to work and class. Another provided a temporary software subscription for a student whose coursework depended on using the tool.
As they introduced SSF to the campus, members also built strong momentum through events, student outreach, and a presentation to the university’s community impact team that resulted in a $2,000 matching gift. Along the way, support from established SSF chapters, particularly other college chapters, helped the group navigate its first year with confidence.
“I’m proud of the fact that even though it’s SNHU’s first year, we were able to grant money to those who needed it during the semester and created events that support SSF as a whole. We dedicated grants to those with inquiries related to issues or situations that stopped the students from pursuing academics. We also used the funds to pay for meal prep plans that were provided during winter/spring break to solve the food insecurity problems.”
Stetson University
Founded: 2017 | DeLand, FL
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This year, the Stetson University SSF chapter raised more than $13,000 through alumni support, matching gifts, and the university's Senior Class Gift campaign (graduating seniors chose to give back so future students would have access to emergency financial assistance). Matching contributions from university leadership further expanded the chapter's ability to support students in need.
Those resources supported grants for students facing professional, educational, and personal financial barriers. One helped an international student cover an unexpected tax bill that threatened her ability to complete her degree and remain in the United States after graduation.
This year also challenged members to think more intentionally about stewardship. After reviewing a wide range of applications, the chapter refined its grant guidelines to better communicate what SSF funding can and cannot support, creating a clearer process for future applicants. By pairing thoughtful grantmaking with an extraordinary commitment from students, alumni, and university leaders, the chapter continues to strengthen its culture of students helping students.
“I joined SSF to help people and have a meaningful role in my community. I love what SSF does for students on our campus, and I want to continue giving back in any way I can. I do think SSF makes a big difference in people’s lives, and I wanted to be a part of the difference.”
University of Central Florida
Founded: 2016 | Orlando, FL
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A decade after its founding, the University of Central Florida's SSF chapter earned a Dream Big Grant, which honors clubs with up to $25,000 for a special project. They are using it to address one of the most pressing challenges facing its community: food insecurity. Members recognized that many of the emergency requests they reviewed shared that common thread. Rather than continuing to respond to one student at a time, they envisioned a solution that would strengthen support for thousands on campus at once. The result: The chapter is using its Dream Big funding to strengthen the Knights Helping Knights Food Pantry, an established and vital campus resource, by expanding access to fresh, protein-rich foods and providing dining hall meal vouchers for students facing immediate hunger.
That same thoughtful approach has long guided the chapter's grantmaking. This year, members helped a student purchase lifesaving insulin after an unexpected increase in insurance costs. They also made it a priority to follow up with applicants to request additional information when needed; members recognized that every application represented a person navigating difficult circumstances, and they did not want paperwork to be a barrier to receiving help. Through the Dream Big Grant, the chapter is extending that same spirit of compassion beyond individual grants and creating lasting change across campus.
“Being part of SSF has taught me the importance of balancing empathy with responsibility. I’ve learned how to make fair, thoughtful decisions while recognizing that behind every application is a real person facing challenges that can impact their education.”
Vel Phillips Memorial High School
Founded: 2010 | Madison, WI
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Vel Phillips Memorial High School's SSF chapter reached an exciting milestone this year: earning a $25,000 Dream Big grant to build a long-envisioned outdoor classroom and amphitheater. After a previous outdoor gathering area was removed from campus, members saw an opportunity to create a welcoming space where students and teachers could learn, gather, and connect. Developed through months of collaboration with school and district partners, the outdoor classroom will serve as both a flexible learning environment and a place for students to eat lunch, study, or spend time together.
That sort of forward-thinking guided the chapter throughout the year. Rather than roll unspent grant funds into the next school year, members recognized that many students lose access to important resources when school is no longer in session, so they created summer baskets filled with food and hygiene supplies and distributed them to students identified by school counselors.
The club's influence could also be seen through its alumni. Two former SSF members returned with an idea to improve access to menstrual products for students. After partnering with school nurses and social workers, the concept evolved into take-home care bags that better addressed students' needs. Years after serving as SSF members, they were still looking for ways to make their former school a better place.
“I’ve learned more about my school community and how limited funding for really important causes can be. Joining SSF has led me to be more conscious of the different communities that exist within the broader school community.”