Special Education Foundation

Special Education Foundation (SEF) is a non-profit organization established in 1984 with a mission to support children with disabilities in St. Louis County. While over 16 percent of students in the county receive special education services, the Foundation aims to bridge the gaps not covered by tax dollars. It operates solely on private donations to provide a wide range of crucial services for these students. SEF's vision is to deliver cutting-edge programs that will positively impact students with disabilities. The organization collaborates with the Special School District of St. Louis County to identify areas of need and aims to increase its annual revenue to expand its services. The Foundation's initiatives include scholarships for college-bound students, summer camps to address the education gap, financial support for Special Olympics, and specialized equipment for children with physical disabilities, among others. SEF's work extends beyond traditional education support, including providing hearing aids, mini-grants for innovative projects, leadership programs for high school students, and social skills training. Recognizing students' achievements and sponsoring events such as the Commitment to Kids Banquet are also part of its activities. The foundation's dedication to serving the community and region has positioned it as an effective and essential organization in fulfilling the needs of special education students. With an emphasis on educational support, inclusion, and holistic development, SEF has demonstrated a clear dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of students with disabilities. This aligns with the growing emphasis on inclusive education and the importance of supporting diverse learning needs within the education industry. However, its reliance on private donations presents a potential challenge in sustaining and expanding its impactful programs.