WHAT WE DO
The Panther Fund strives to provide financial assistance and equitable opportunities for all students at West Ottawa Public Schools who desire to participate in athletics, arts, music, theater and academics and their ability to participate has been limited due to financial and accessibility constraints.
With our latest campaign expansions we have also started to impact WO elementary students. We have partnered with West Ottawa to bring and continue the afterschool Panther Pathways program, and we have kick started elementary swim program, where we are providing access to quality swim lessons for all 2nd grade, 4th grade, and summer school students.
50%
Half of the student population at West Ottawa Public Schools are eligible for the Free and Reduced Lunch Progam, a federally assisted meal program.
The Panther Fund believes in the power of participation in school enrichment programs and provides qualifying students with up to $100 in assistance each semester or athletic season to help make participation in these activities more affordable for families in need.
HOW
do we help?
ATHLETICS
We help students pay for school required insurance, an athletic physical and team apparel in addition to basic sports equipment and more.
THEATER
Students come to us with requests to help offset the cost of participating in performing arts programs, which can include costumes, travel, other expenses and more.
ACADEMICS
We support students' academic needs such as helping pay for field trips, calculators, registration
and conference costs, club apparel and more.
ARTS
The Panther Fund supports students with an interest in exploring their talent in visual arts by helping cover lab donations and assorted art supplies.
MUSIC
We believe students should have every opportunity to pursue their musical interests. Our support affords students the opportunity to participate in band, orchestra and choir.
WO
The Panther Fund values each and every student and the talents they have to offer their academic community. We strive to offer the opportunity to test, grow and challenge their abilities in a safe and nurturing school environment.
Helping West Ottawa students at every level!
The Panther Fund helped me participate in sports even when my family was going through tough times. The Panther Fund really gave me a great opportunity to excel in athletics at West Ottawa.
