25 Years of Being Present.
In 2026, in honor of our 25th anniversary, we’re calling on 253 community members to stand with us — not just once, but every single month.
🌱 Our Roots: The Beginning of CIS of Tacoma
More than 25 years ago, a group of community members recognized a growing need in Tacoma’s schools.
They saw students facing real barriers — and families doing their best to navigate overwhelming challenges. Instead of turning away, they leaned in.
They came together, started a grassroots movement, and planted a seed of hope. That seed grew — and Communities In Schools of Tacoma was born.
Today, that small beginning has grown into something deeply rooted and far-reaching:
🌳 A living network of support in schools across Tacoma
🌳 A trusted presence for thousands of students and families every year
🌳 A foundation of care, consistency, and community that continues to grow
By giving $25/month, you become part of our Anniversary Circle — a community of monthly donors committed to being present for Tacoma’s youth, all year long.
Your investment helps us:
- Keep our roots strong by embedding staff in schools
- Extend our branches through mentorship, re-engagement, and FREE253
- Provide daily nourishment — snacks, supplies, and emotional support
Want to multiply your impact?
Ask your employer if they match monthly gifts — or invite a friend to join you in being present.
“I choose to become a monthly donor for CIS because I believe in their mission to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. My monthly gift helps ensure that caring adults are consistently present to remove barriers and help students thrive – inside and outside of the classroom.”
— Kacee, monthly donor
“I give monthly because I can see the direct impact my contribution makes in our students’ lives. The role that CIS-T plays within the Tacoma School District is critical now more than ever, as many students and families are facing immense challenges just to make it through the day, let alone meet the expectation to show up and succeed in school. There is often little to no consideration for the barriers our students face, which means that ‘showing up’ can look very different for every student.” ~ Keysha-Rae, monthly donor
“I give monthly because I have witnessed, firsthand, how deeply a child is impacted when they know someone is consistently in their corner. Communities in Schools of Tacoma plays that role every day, providing stability, encouragement and essential support for students who need it most. As a parent and community member, I want to help ensure that support never wavers, especially during a time when many families are facing uncertainty and need immediate access to reliable resources. I truly believe it takes a village to nurture a child’s potential and my recurring contribution is one way I choose to show up for students who deserve every opportunity to feel seen, supported and capable of achieving their dreams.” ~ Marckia, monthly donor