ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) – The Rockingham Educational Foundation, Inc. (REFI), is partnering with the Rockingham County Public Schools (RCPS) Fine Arts program to launch a fundraising campaign aimed at establishing the first REFI Fine Arts Endowment. The initiative will provide annual funding to enhance and sustain the Fine Arts program within RCPS, allowing students to engage more deeply in the arts.

In a release, Ashton Rawley, Development Director for REFI says, “currently, RCPS offers three key disciplines in the Fine Arts: Art, Music, and Theatre. These programs not only enrich students’ educational experiences but also foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking skills. However, to maintain and expand these offerings, additional financial support is crucial.”

The REFI Fine Arts Endowment will give students access to high-quality resources and diverse opportunities for artistic expression. By establishing the endowment, REFI will “aim to create a sustainable funding source that will benefit generations of students.”

“We believe that a strong Fine Arts program is essential to a well-rounded education,” said Victoria Landis, Executive Director of REFI. “This endowment will provide our students with the tools they need to explore their creativity and express themselves through various artistic disciplines. We are committed to nurturing the talents of our young artists and ensuring that the arts remain a vibrant part of their education.”

Rawley adds that the first $10,000 raised will be matched dollar for dollar by an anonymous donor. Donations can be made online or by check. To donate online visit www.refigivesback.org/refi-fae.html. Checks can be made out to REFI with “FAE” in the memo line and mailed to 100 Mt. Clinton Pike, Harrisonburg, VA 22802.