Operation Fairy Godmother
- ... FAQ's about the Operation Fairy Godmother Sabbatical
The Vancouver School District Foundation Board of Directors has decided to take a one-year sabbatical from Operation Fairy Godmother. It was not an easy decision, but after months of discussion, several issues converged telling us it was time to rethink Operation Fairy Godmother.
The very success of Operation Fairy Godmother (OFG) has surpassed our resources. As you’re aware, Operation Fairy Godmother is just one of the many programs operated by the Vancouver School District Foundation. We must balance the resources required for Operation Fairy Godmother with other programs.
We're asking ourselves, not just about Operation Fairy Godmother, but all our programs, "Are we using our resources as effectively as possible to help the greatest number of students in need?"
Our research told us that few girls in need received free dresses. We’re not exactly sure why, but we know that proms have changed. More girls are wearing semi-formal and short dresses, and themed dances are popular, too. Further, the space OFG occupied at the Vancouver Mall for the past four years no longer is available.
Today, many places offer beautiful dresses at deeply discounted prices. Dresses can be purchased at
The Foundation has met with several potential partners about taking a leadership role in Operation Fairy Godmother. While no formal commitment has transpired, we will continue to seek out and work with potential partners in the hopes of finding an organization to share in or take over this amazing program.
Our plan is to take the next four to six months to research and evaluate Operation Fairy Godmother, then report back to the community by September 2011. During this sabbatical, Foundation staff and board members will monitor and evaluate feedback from school staff, donors, area businesses, volunteers and the young women impacted by this decision.
Thank you for your help and understanding. I hope the attached Q&A will answer most basic questions, but should you have additional concerns, please feel free to contact me personally at 360.313.4723 or tara.taylor@vansd.org.
