Rochester Education Foundation

What is REF’s impact?

REF collaborates with schools and community partners to fill resource gaps and provide meaningful experiences for Rochester city students. Our work has a profound, positive impact on students’ success. We have an impact on 20,000 students. We are dedicated to helping our students succeed.

The four words that describe REF’s heart and soul are:

  • Collaboration

  • Empowerment

  • Access

  • Success

Core Programs:

Why donate to REF?

At REF, we rely on the generosity of donors to keep our organization running strong. Your donation will enable us to continue supporting student success in the city of Rochester.

When you join the Rochester Education Foundation Champions’ Circle, you help spark that love of learning in students across our city. Your generosity expands access to enriching experiences that inspire curiosity, encourage creativity, and help students discover what excites them most.

Champions’ Circle

Learn more

“REF has really changed my music career drastically. Honestly, if I didn’t have the 
instrument that I have from REF, I probably wouldn’t have performed at Carnegie. 
Your instrument is your voice. If your voice is restricted, then you can’t make the music 
you really want to make. If I didn’t have the instrument that I have today, I probably 
wouldn’t be playing the flute because I wouldn’t be as motivated.”

Jashanti Henry - Instrument Award Winner 2018