Claudia Zebell, of Dowagiac, is the owner of downtown boutique Rosy Tomorrows and the secretary of the Dowagiac Union Schools Board of Education. Zebell volunteers her time to Dowagiac Union Schools Foundation, an organization that supports teachers and students with the local school district, as a member of the foundation’s board of directors.

How did you get involved with the foundation?

I have volunteered over the years with the PTO, band boosters, athletic boosters, so that is why I was asked to do this. People know that I enjoy volunteering.

What do you like about volunteering with the foundation?

It’s a wonderful committee to be a part of. I have a place in my heart for education and for giving money to help teachers and students. I just love it. We support wonderful projects that enhance learning for students.

The people who serve on the committee are just amazing. They work tirelessly for the golf outing, which happens once a year.

That is the sole fundraiser for us. We spilt the proceeds from that with the athletic boosters to fund scholarships as well. My children have benefited personally from those scholarships, and I don’t take a single scholarship for granted. They have made a difference in my kids being able to go to college. That has meant so much to me.

I appreciate what our teachers do as well, and how hard they work. So to be able to encourage them a little bit by providing resources that aren’t available otherwise has meant so much.

How does the process work?

We have a three page [grant] application that the teachers fill out that says how the money will be used, how the money will be used; basic information such as that.

What the most rewarding part about working with the foundation?

I have loved education since I was young. It was a value that was instilled in me by my parents. I have always loved to learn. I really appreciate the administration and staff, and how hard they work.

The schools have meant a lot to my children’s lives as well. It is one reason I ran for the board of education, so I could be part of the team, to be able to help behind the scenes, to support the staff with their needs. It’s good for the kids. That is what we are all about, to help the kids and make sure they get the best education possible.

Is there anything you want to say to encourage the community to support the foundation?

It’s such a worthwhile cause for them to donate to because it makes quality programming possible for our students that might not otherwise be possible. It [the foundation] helps inside the classroom, with extra books, microscopes, things for robotics.

It enhances the music program. It helps on every front, from reading to science to math, for athletics. In age where the state has cut funding, our foundation allows the staff to be able to provide those extras for students. It’s a great thing to donate to.