Local Retirement Community Supports Student Achievement

Since its inception in 1997, Foundation House at Northgate, a not-for-profit retirement community in North Seattle, has welcomed all seniors from diverse backgrounds. But it started with something special in mind.

“Foundation House was created through the efforts of Seattle educators to establish a residential community for former educators and administrators,” says John Moffitt, Foundation House Board President. And Foundation House continues a focus on educational achievement through its giving programs.

Improving Student Achievement

Since 2008 Foundation House at Northgate has given multiple grants to local organizations designed to assist Seattle Public Schools in improving student achievement. In November, they granted $2,000 to the Alliance for Education to support community efforts in raising graduation rates and increasing the successful transfer of first-generation, low income and students of color to college. This program, School College Access Network (SCAN), is a collaborative effort between representatives of higher education, workforce development, district and school staff, advocacy organizations, and other agencies serving youth.

“The grant will help keep the ‘student voice’ at the center of this work,” says Board member Jay Iman. The grant will enable ten youth ambassadors from Seattle public high schools to develop solutions to barriers toward successful transition to community college. “The ambassadors will work not only on developing solutions, but in advocating for implementing these solutions,” he adds.

Another Community Award

Foundation House at Northgate Education Committee awarded $4,800 to the Washington Rhinestone Club at their annual debutante ball. The award assists twelve college-bound young women.

“The organization encourages young women to pursue a degree in higher education with involvement in social activities,” says Dr. Nancy Scranton, Chair of the Education Committee of the Foundation House Board.

Foundation House at Northgate financially supports two major philanthropic groups; The Education Committee, which provides financial assistance for the development of educational programs such as Alliance for Education, Washington Rhinestone Club, National Eritrean Youth and Students, Communities in Schools and Seattle Community College High School. The Merv Nyberg Endowment Fund provides financial assistance to staff and activities for seniors. FHN’s Board of Directors consists of retired educators and other supportive professionals.

Foundation House at Northgate is located at 11301 3rd Ave. NE., in Seattle near Northgate Mall. For more information, call 206-361-2758, or visit www.foundationhouseng.com. RETIREMENT LIVING AT ITS BEST! ™

This article appeared in the January 2013 issue of Northwest Prime Time, the Puget Sound region’s monthly publication celebrating life after 50.