The Coronavirus pandemic has caused the cancellation of the Mountain Education Foundation’s three major, traditional events in 2020 (6th annual Dash & Bash in April, Cow Pies & Kickball in August, and the signature gala Celebration for Education in October), resulting in a loss of approximately $150,000 in gross revenue to support Signal Mountain schools. Nevertheless, MEF has been working to modify events and make new plans that will be safe in the present circumstances, and corporate sponsors are stepping up with their support.

Decade sponsors Jonathan and Lindsey Frost of J.D. Frost & Co and Frost Designs, Inc., didn’t let changing circumstances affect their investment. “We believe that no matter what is happening in the world, our children’s education is our top priority," said Mr. Frost. "It is our community and the people here- young and old- who make us stronger. Our strength as a community will get us through times like this and beyond.”

The Frost companies are joined by many others as MEF Annual Sponsors for 2020-21:

J.D. Frost & Company
Frost Designs, Inc.
Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Chattanooga
First Horizon Bank
Welch Dental Center (Dr. Jonathan Welch)
Chambliss Attorneys at Law
Chattanooga Box Company
Dynamic Print + Promotions
Eyes on the Mountain (Dr. Brian Hale)
Flipper Bend
Ryan Womack, Personal Injury Attorney
SunTrust
Travis Close Homes
UBS: The Donina Group
Wealth Preservation Advisors

Unrelated to the pandemic, MEF unveiled a new “Annual Sponsorship” package this year, shifting from the event-based sponsorships of prior years. The intent was to offer more value for businesses, with yearlong marketing in addition to participation in all MEF events. But COVID made hosting fundraising events uncertain.

“We were very candid with the businesses who have sponsored our events in the past,” said MEF Executive Director Hilarie Robison. “We told them, ‘Your investment as a business sponsor is more important than ever in this environment where fundraising options are so limited by COVID. Gatherings may be taboo, but learning continues, and the MEF-funded teachers and resources are critical for our students. The need is great, the year's events are uncertain, but we hope your commitment remains strong.’ We were so thrilled with their response, and we couldn’t be more grateful for their investment during this anything-but-normal year.”

MEF has modified portions of past fundraiser events, making them virtual for online participation. The new fall lineup includes a virtual version of last year’s popular “Cow Pie Drop,” an online auction featuring products, services, experiences and travel for all ages and budgets, and a golf tournament on Nov. 9 at Signal Mountain Golf & Country Club. These events are newly-planned to help fill the revenue gaps caused by COVID, and are open to all participants. Visit MEFtoday.org for details and registration.