A Mission That Spans Birth to Graduation
The Hancock Community Education Foundation (HCEF) was founded in 1999 by Ron DeLuca, Wellington Lester, and George Elwood. Since receiving 501(c)(3) status in 2000, HCEF has committed itself to supporting educational success across all stages of life, from early childhood through post-graduation.
Their mission is straightforward but ambitious: to provide educational support from birth to post-graduation and to raise the rate of students who pursue higher education. Their vision includes achieving 100% graduation and improving quality of life for Hancock children and families.
Hancock, NY faces many challenges: it is among the poorest towns in one of New York’s most economically stressed counties. HCEF’s leaders believe meaningful change must begin early, providing sustained support so educational opportunity becomes the norm, not the exception.
A Strong Partnership with Hancock Central School
HCEF’s impact is magnified through its longstanding partnership with Hancock Central School (HCS). By collaborating closely with HCS, HCEF ensures that its programs are aligned with the district’s academic standards and student needs. From offering before- and after-school enrichment to supporting classroom initiatives, HCEF helps create a seamless network of educational opportunities. HCS faculty and staff actively engage with HCEF programs, allowing students to transition smoothly from school-based learning to extended enrichment activities.
This partnership also extends to scholarship opportunities, summer programs, and family engagement events hosted at HCS facilities. By combining HCEF’s resources with HCS’s educational infrastructure, students benefit from consistent support throughout their school years, reinforcing both academic success and personal growth.
New this year, Career Shadowing offers students in grades 9–12 the chance to explore career fields firsthand. HCEF assists in securing real-world shadowing placements that match student interests, while HCS supports the development of soft skills, goal setting, and course selection that align with each student’s career path. This joint effort ensures that students leave high school with the confidence and experience to pursue their chosen futures.
The partnership also includes Story Hour, a family engagement night that invites children and families to hear stories read by guest readers and select a take-home book, encouraging a love for reading and literacy development from an early age.
Additionally, HCEF and HCS have strengthened their collaboration during this year’s College and Career Day, working side-by-side to help students make informed decisions about post-secondary education and career opportunities. Together, they’re ensuring that students can connect classroom learning to real-world goals and understand how their coursework supports their long-term aspirations.
Programs & Initiatives: How HCEF Makes a Difference
HCEF currently operates educational and social programs that serve youth and families in Hancock. Some of the core offerings include:
Children’s Center (birth through age 3): Activities like sensory play, storytelling, music, movement, and art support early brain development.
Preschool Program: A four-day-a-week structured program that helps prepare young children with motor skills, early literacy, and school readiness.
Early Birds Before School Care Program: Located at Hancock Elementary School, this program runs every school day from 6:45 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. for students in grades K–9, providing a safe and engaging environment.
After-School Programs: Offering academic support, enrichment, and supervised activities, these programs often coordinate with HCS teachers to extend classroom learning.
Family Learning Center: A space for family engagement: parents and children learn together, in areas like literacy, nutrition, local history, and more.
Summer Enrichment Program: A four-week initiative designed to combat “summer slide” through project-based learning, hands-on experiences, and trips tied to curricular themes.
Scholarship Programs: HCEF distributes need-based awards to graduating seniors and alumni, often in close partnership with HCS guidance counselors to ensure students access these opportunities.
Over its lifetime, HCEF has invested more than $2 million in the Hancock community, with over $1.3 million directed specifically to scholarship grants. To carry out this work, HCEF employs 22 part-time educators and tutors, along with one full-time Executive Director. The Foundation has also secured external funding, such as 21st Century grants, to support after-school programming for middle school and K–9 students.
Leadership & Community Support
Since 2005, Linda K. O’Brien has led HCEF as its Executive Director.
The Foundation is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors:
President: Dawn Joyce
Vice President: Evan Hall
Treasurer: Kenneth Salvestrini
Secretary: Randi Appley
Additional board members from the community
HCS has consistently recognized HCEF’s role in shaping a brighter future for students and families. This collaboration demonstrates the power of community organizations and schools working hand-in-hand to support student achievement and lifelong learning.
Looking Ahead & How You Can Help
HCEF continues to push forward in its goal to sustain and expand support for Hancock’s youth at every stage of their educational journey. Its long-term aim is not just to fund students who already have momentum, but to shift the trajectory for entire generations.
Ways to support or get involved:
Donate or sponsor programs: Your gift helps sustain early education, enrichment, and scholarships. www.hancockeducationfoundation.org
Volunteer your time or expertise: Opportunities include tutoring, mentoring, or hosting events in partnership with HCS. Contact: hcef@hancock.net
Raise awareness: Share stories about HCEF’s impact to strengthen community support.
Through its strong partnership with Hancock Central School, HCEF ensures that every Hancock student has access to the resources, guidance, and encouragement needed to thrive — from their first steps in early education to their first steps into the future.