After being inspired by rock star teacher Rafe Esquith in Los Angeles, we set out to raise money for our classrooms.  Our first year aspirations were certainly met, as an overwhelming amount of support poured in.  Our students have been blessed by this support and we cannot thank our 2007-08 benefactors enough.  God bless you!

Our second year also brought us big things.  Thanks to another set of donors (many of whom were repeats), we took the 8th, 5th, and 4th grade classes on trips of a lifetime.  The 8th graders had an amazing confirmation retreat in the mountains and the 4th/5th graders conquered Pike's Peak!

It's not too early to start thinking about next year!  In these tough economic times, our school is in need of scholarship money.  Also, we want to continue our fundraising efforts for other things like field trips, playground equipment, and books.

Rafe's fundraising took a huge jump when he established his classroom as a non-profit entity.  However, since we teach at a Catholic School, the non-profit status and corresponding tax benefits are already established. 

It's always an awkward thing to ask for money, but we know many generous people look for worthy causes.  Of course, we believe that if there was ever a worthy cause, these amazing kids are it.  St. Rose of Lima is one of the financially neediest schools in the Archdiocese of Denver.  Over 80% of the students qualify for the federal free/reduced lunch program and receive tuition aid.  Another 10% just barely miss the federal cutoffs but remain in need. 

The image of Catholic schools many people hold is that of the sports-factories with rich suburban families.  That is not the case for inner-city schools struggling to survive, as they serve students from economically disadvantaged families unable to pay a large tuition bill.  However, our dream is not just to keep our mission alive; we hope to build the second-to-none educational experience our students deserve.



You can make checks payable us or to St. Rose of Lima School.  If you wish to direct your funds to our classrooms, please write 4th/8th Grades in the memo.

Send checks to:

St. Rose of Lima School
c/o Ryan/Sarah O'Connor
1345 W. Dakota Ave.
Denver, CO  80223

We also still have our book wish list here:

 

While it is not necessary, you may wish to read/use this letter/form from the principal.  In addition to supporting our classrooms (Sarah: 8th Grade; Ryan: 4th Grade) directly, you may choose to finance some tuition for a child.

(Finally: If you have a Macy's credit card, click here to learn how to support our school at no cost to you!)

Questions? Contact Us
BeYellow.org@gmail.com

Thank you and God Bless!