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JPEF and Community First Cares Renew Annual Matching Gift Program for Local Classroom Projects

09.25.2025 / Amy Henderson - Director of Marketing and Communications, JPEF

Jacksonville, FL — Sept. 25, 2025 — The Jacksonville Public Education Fund (JPEF), in partnership with Community First Cares Foundation and the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations (CFEF), is once again joining forces to double donations for Duval County classroom projects through the DonorsChoose platform.

This annual initiative—now a valued tradition—matches every donation made to eligible Duval County Public Schools projects on DonorsChoose.org, ensuring that community support goes twice as far in putting essential tools and resources into the hands of local students and teachers. The funding benefits teachers for innovative programs not normally possible through traditional budgets.

Starting September 29, contributions to qualifying projects will be matched dollar-for-dollar until matching funds are exhausted.

“At JPEF, we are committed to mobilizing community support so every child has the tools they need to succeed,” said Rachael Tutwiler Fortune, JPEF president. “This partnership with Community First Cares and CFEF allows us to put twice the resources into classrooms—empowering teachers to bring innovative ideas to life and inspiring students with learning experiences that go beyond what traditional budgets allow.”

Community First Cares Foundation—the philanthropic arm of Community First Credit Union—provides funding for the match, helping hundreds of classroom projects receive the support they need.

“Community Cares Foundation is proud to be a long-standing partner of JPEF in funding innovative and creative classroom projects that help enhance public education,” said Roger Rassman, chair of the board of Community First Cares. “JPEF is helping our teachers and students in impactful ways.”

Program Impact in the 2024-25 School Year

In the last program cycle, community generosity combined with matching funds helped:

  • Fund 139 classroom projects
  • Support 52 schools across Duval County
  • Reach and benefit more than 15,000 students


These projects provided books, STEM materials, art supplies, technology, and other tools that enriched lessons and inspired learning.

Donors can participate in three easy steps:

  • 1. Visit www.donorschoose.org and search for Duval County projects.
  • 2. Choose a project that inspires you.
  • 3. Make a donation—knowing it will be matched to maximize your impact.

For more information and to support a classroom project, visit https://www.donorschoose.org/

About the Jacksonville Public Education Fund (JPEF)

The Jacksonville Public Education Fund is an independent think-and-do tank that believes every student should graduate high school inspired and prepared for success in college or a career and life. JPEF serves as a bridge in support of public education, activating community support, connecting partners, and advancing effective ideas for the success of all students. For more information:  https://www.jaxpef.org/

About Community First Cares Foundation

Community First Cares Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Community First Credit Union. The foundation invests in local nonprofit organizations focused on education, health and human services, and the arts to help build a stronger Northeast Florida. Learn more at www.communityfirstfl.org.

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