The Jerry & Yvonne Kehr Education Fund was established in the Fall of 2023 as a memorial to their work in Plumas County. The Kehrs believed that the future lies in our youth and it is our responsibility to nurture and empower the younger generation, which contributes to the health, growth and longevity of the community.
The mission of the fund is to support educational, artistic, and vocational initiatives in Plumas County and provide resources that enhance learning avenues for students of all ages. The fund aims to foster educational opportunities and excellence, promote innovation, and ensure equal access to education for all.
The fund, sponsored by the Almanor Foundation, is governed by a committee that represents a wide area of expertise to address the educational and vocational needs in Plumas County. The committee believes that monies from the fund can be applied to resources to reduce the challenges in Plumas County educational system. Some of the issues facing the county include an aging and declining population, diminishing school enrollment affecting school funding, lack of a skilled workforce, vocational programs, and full community involvement, few trained leaders, an increase in youth social-emotional issues, and the fact that many of our “best and brightest” youths leave and do not return.
The first task is a needs assessment that will be rolled out in March. Surveys will be presented to Plumas County teachers, businesses, parents, and students to gather data to prioritize needs and set strategies for fundraising.
Committee members include Rita Bunzel, SPI; Trina Cunningham, Maidu; Chelsea Harrison, School Board Member; Rachelle Ramelli, Plumas Bank; Anne Kassenbaum, retired Parks and Rec Bay Area and LAAC Executive Director; Lauren McIntyre, Indian Valley Charter; Melissa Lopez, parent; and Susan Bryner, The Almanor Foundation.
Anyone interested in serving on the committee is asked to contact Susan Bryner at [email protected]. There is a need for additional representation from Central and Eastern Plumas County communities.
Donations to the fund can be made at https://bit.ly/KehrEducationFund
