The Homer Foundation announced last week the completion of its newest fund, the Educators Professional Development Fund. The fund’s purpose is to provide on-going support for professional development of local educators.

Establishing the fdund was a collaborative effort led by individuals connected to public education in the Homer community. As an acorn fund, the group had a 2-year window to reach $10,000, the amount required to establish a permanent fund at the Homer Foundation. On Dec. 22 the group met its goal.

Two individuals instrumental in moving the project forward are Flo Larson and Elaine Grantier. Upon reaching the $10,000, Grantier said, “Hallelujah, Amen, and thank you, Lord. To everyone who has been so supportive on this committee, my personal gratitude.”

Larson said, “Thanks for the work and support by many. We did it.”

The work is not over yet. The committee will continue to raise funds and work on selection criteria for the competitive grants. Grantier and Larson said they want to make sure everyone knows there is still the opportunity to contribute to the fund; many donors have made their gifts in honor of and in memory of important teachers in their lives.

Anyone wishing to help with the selection criteria process can contact the Homer Foundation for more information at 907-235-0541 or homerfoundation.org.