Most Successful Fall Drive Ever Sets a New Record

Community generosity fuels a historic $1.57 million campaign, driven by new families, early giving, and growing leadership-level support.

Kicking off Fall Drive and celebrating historic fundraising success at McKinley’s Back-to-School Night.

The Burlingame Community for Education Foundation (BCE) announced that its annual Fall Drive has set a new fundraising record, bringing in $1.57 million, which is approximately $200,000 more than any previous Fall Drive in BCE history. The Fall Drive, held every year from Back-to-School through early November, kicks off BCE’s fundraising for the school year and plays a critical role in supporting TK–8 programs across the Burlingame School District.

BCE leaders attributed this year’s success to a remarkable rise in participation from new families, especially among TK and Kindergarten parents and those who recently moved into the district. Schools such as McKinley, Franklin, and Washington saw standout engagement from first-time donors. BCE President Jen Faber noted that intentional community-building helped fuel this enthusiasm. “Hosting meaningful new family events, like playdates where young families can connect, has been a powerful driver of engagement,” Faber said. “When families build relationships early on, they begin to understand the impact BCE has on their children.”

Many donors also chose to give earlier in the year, which BCE says makes a significant difference. Early contributions allow the foundation to receive corporate matching funds sooner. BCE Executive Director Meredith Dunn emphasized that early donations also reduce the burden on volunteers and the number of fundraising reminders families receive. “When we reach our goals sooner, everyone wins,” she said.

Increased generosity at higher giving levels played a role in Fall Drive’s success, as well. The number of Scholars Circle donors (gifts of $4,000+) grew by about 10 percent, and participation in the Leadership Circle ($10,000+), introduced last year, started to grow. Incoming BCE President Pooja Shah shared that understanding the impact inspired her own family to step up. “We always gave at the ask amount, but this year we decided to join Leadership Circle,” she said. “We wanted to support at a level that reflects how much these programs mean to us.”

While the suggested donation remains $2,000 per student per year, BCE stresses that it is an inclusive organization striving for 100% participation, welcoming contributions of all sizes. Many families leverage corporate matching to extend their impact, while others give at levels comfortable for them, all of which strengthens Burlingame schools.

BCE closes the record-breaking Fall Drive with gratitude, thanking all who contributed and encouraging families who have not yet donated to do so, and to be sure to request corporate matches if available.