To support schools in our area, Southwest Partnership raises funds to support a small grants program, named the "Lou Packett Grant Fund for Schools!" The grant program helps the seven public schools in our area get the support they need in an equitable, accessible way while providing an easy way for individual donors to support area schools and know that their contributions are going directly to schools. The funds are designed with the knowledge that school communities know best how to support their students, families, and staff.
Community Schools provide a range of resources to schools, families and students--from basic needs such as food and clothing to help accessing housing and adult education to after school programs and academic enrichment. They do a lot with a little, and the grants fund is designed to support our schools and provide an opportunity for community members to directly support the needs of schools, children, and families.
Lou giving a high five (and lollipop) to a young boy in Union Square Park
Who was Lou Packett?
The fund for schools is named in memory of Lou Packett.
Lou was a committed and passionate advocate for our neighborhoods and the people who live in them, a tireless champion not afraid to make big asks and dream big dreams, and a lifelong learner who was always happy to try new things and learn new things. He was always working for a more just, compassionate, and connected world. Lou was an organizer, a champion, and a friend.
As a past Chair of our Education and Workforce Development Committee he was a leader in advocating for community schools and educational equity. He organized a series of community conversations on the impact of racism on education. He worked tirelessly to make sure schools, teachers, and students had what they needed to be successful, and grow. As a Franklin Square neighbor he organized community trips to harvest fresh fruits and vegetables and bring them home to freely share with the community. As the Fund Development Chair for the SWP he built partnerships with churches, local and national organizations, businesses, and individuals to ensure that the SWP has the resources needed to build an awesome, vibrant, diverse community.
