Studies show that, as of 2013, the majority of public schools in the United States are in poverty. Around 51 percent of students from pre-kindergarten to twelfth grade qualify for free or reduced lunch. While the economy has improved, poverty rate has still been increasing. These students are at an extreme disadvantage. Many of them start off just like any other kid, with the same drive and willingness to learn, but over time their lack of resources steers them in the wrong direction.

Many schools receive Title I funds from the government. In order to qualify for Title I funds, at least 40% of the school’s students must be considered to be living in poverty. There are many benefits of private funding as opposed to Title I money. Title I money comes with many strings attached. It must be spent on things like teacher aides and reading programs that narrow the achievement gap. It has become evident that government funds just aren’t enough.

My idea is to create a website that allows people to donate private funds directly to a Title one school in their area. These funds can be spent on classroom supplies like pencil boxes and notebooks (things that are so often purchased by the teachers with money out of their own pocket). It can also be spent on things like after school athletic programs, physical education, and music programs, all of which are things that can keep student out of trouble and on the right path.

My target audience is middle age/ older adults that belong to the middle/ upper class. To spread the word and convince people to donate, I will not only have a Website as well as a Facebook account.

The campaign will be called FundMyFuture.