Green Dragon Foundation Hosts Focus Groups

During September, the Green Dragon Foundation hosted three focus groups at the Lewisburg Area High School.

According to board president, Brooks Gronlund, during the past 18 months, the Green Dragon Foundation has laid the groundwork to become a successful fundraising organization.  Before launching its formal fundraising efforts, the Foundation wanted to conduct three focus groups to introduce and review its mission statement and receive feedback on its Case Statement (case for support).  Brooks states, “We valued participants’ input to help us move forward.” 

With guidance from Dr. Walter Stewart and Dr. Sharon L. Larson, of the Center for Health Research at Geisinger, the Green Dragon Foundation averaged 12 participants at each session.   

Brooks explained that the purpose of the focus groups was to receive input on the Foundation’s mission and its case for support.  Additionally, it was to confirm and validate the mission of the organization.  And finally it was to learn more and explore ideas with a few members of the community.

Following the three focus group sessions, a reception was held at the home of Dr. & Mrs. Ernest Normington.  Focus group participants were invited so that the Foundation could share its research findings.

At the culminating reception, Brooks proudly announced that the Green Dragon Foundation has had many accomplishments during the past 3 years when the concept for the Foundation began to emerge.  It was just an idea shared by a few people. 

  • Just one year ago, there were 10 founding members who pledged a total of $100,000. 
  • In February, the Foundation hired its first part-time executive director, Ann Glock. 
  • In April, the Foundation received its 501(c)(3) certification.
  • The Green Dragon Foundation office opened in June.
  • The GDF website was launched in August.
  • Focus groups were held in September culminating 
  • With its celebration reception in October.

Findings from the three focus groups CONFIRMED that:

  • Strong schools are an asset to a community. 
  • The public school revenue model is complex and not well understood. 
  • Local philanthropy is more important than national giving. 
  • Athletic facilities continue to be a strong interest by many.
  • Professional fundraising is a valid approach.
  • All students should be given an equal opportunity to succeed.
  • Lewisburg residents take great pride in their schools. 

The Foundation LEARNED that:

  • The school district needs a stronger, more collaborative relationship with Bucknell. 
  • Communication is critical and the Green Dragon Foundation needs broad-based community support to succeed.
  • There is strong interest in improving information technology (IT) resources and its availability.
  • The enrichment program and AP course offerings are falling short.
  • Support for special needs students should be increased.

During the next few months, the Green Dragon Foundation will be seeking contributions and aims to distribute its first grant to the Lewisburg Area School District (LASD) by the end of the year.

In closing, Brooks asked the audience to think about ways in which they could contribute to this important cause.  He asked for volunteers to help spread the sword and educate the community about the mission of the Foundation.  He is excited for the next year as the Green Dragon Foundation continues to strive to accelerate the pursuit of excellence at LASD!