Years of FIRE NE Iowa
0
NE Iowa Partner Schools
0
Invested to Support Inclusion
$ 134 K

Every dollar raised through this campaign - up to $15,000 - will be matched by a generous friend of FIRE.

Will you help us turn $15,000 into $30,000?

FIRE Foundation anniversary video

Igniting Inclusive Catholic Education

Our History

FIRE Foundation of Northeast Iowa was founded in 2016 by a family who believed that all children regardless of their abilities can attend their parish schools with siblings and friends should that be desired. Since that time, through the efforts of parents, a dedicated board of directors, many talented volunteers and community members who embrace inclusive Catholic education, more than $188,000 has been granted to partner schools in the Archdiocese of Dubuque (IA) to support inclusive Catholic education.

The FIRE Foundation of Northeast Iowa, an independent 501(C)3 organization, makes it possible for partner Catholic schools to hire special educators and paraprofessionals and to acquire learning materials and technology that create successful learning experiences for all children.

Without grants from FIRE NE Iowa, most schools would not be able to welcome students with Down syndrome, significant learning disabilities, many who are on the Autism spectrum and students who face other special learning challenges. In inclusive learning environments, children grow up knowing and appreciating each other’s unique gifts.

FIRE NE Iowa opens doors. And hearts.

Lack of resources is often cited as a reason for turning away students with disabilities.

Can you imagine the heartache of being told your school was not able or willing to welcome your child with disabilities? It shouldn’t be that way at Catholic schools. In the Archdiocese of Dubuque, the FIRE Foundation of Northeast Iowa helps schools create learning environments where students with disabilities learn, grow and thrive alongside their typically developing peers.

"Build an educational relationship with each student, who must feel welcomed and loved for what he or she is, with all of the limitations or potential.”

—Pope Francis

FIRE NE Iowa has invested over $188,000 in Catholic schools in our Archdiocese through grants from 2016–2024.

It is a blessing and a privilege to partner with Catholic schools that are committed to embracing the call to serve all learners.