Main fundraiser photo

2017 Starfish Campaign

In 2010, Becky Sharpe - President and CEO of International Scholarship and Tuition Services, Inc. (ISTS) -  transformed the popular story of a young boy and his attempt to save a starfish into a corporate giving initiative.  

Each year, ISTS staff come together to nominate and select charitable organizations that will receive a donation from the company. This annual tradition, known as the Starfish Campaign, encourages ISTS employees to “Help Others” both professionally and personally.

The “starfish story” has been translated into many versions but the core principles remain the same today as they did when the original essay, The Star Thrower, was first written by Loren Eiseley in 1969.

“We must not allow ourselves to be overwhelmed by the neediness of the world.  Instead of doing nothing at all, we choose to be proactive and help in any way we can – big or small,” Sharpe said. “People are energized by the opportunity to connect with a charity or organization that holds personal significance. We bring attention to these groups and it does have an impact.”

New for 2017, ISTS is incorporating this GoFundMe page and a social media campaign (#HelpThatOne) to drive public awareness of and drum up additional financial support for two very deserving organizations: Fannie Battle Day Home and Nashville Public Education Foundation. The goal is to raise a total of $5,000 by September 22; all donations will be added to ISTS' existing commitment and presented to the recipients at a special ceremony in late September. 

We hope you will help ISTS support these fantastic local organizations by contributing to the campaign and sharing with your family, friends and peers. Thank you!



Fannie Battle Day Home’s story began in 1891 when Miss Fannie Battle saw a need in the community. Children were left alone to roam the streets while their parents went to work. She rented a room in East Nashville and began caring for these children by clothing, feeding, educating, and even getting much-needed medical attention to them.

Over 125 years later, Fannie Battle Day Home continues to serve East Nashville families facing economic and educational hardships.

Our donation will go towards Fannie Battle’s academic and enrichment programs, such as:

1.    Summer Camp for School Agers (trips to places like the Nashville Zoo and Adventure Science Center as well as swimming lessons)
2.    Backpack Drive
3.    Scholarships/Emergency Funds 


The Nashville Public Education Foundation (NPEF) believes every child in Nashville should have access to a great public education that prepares them fully for college, work and life. To accomplish their mission, NPEF raises and manages funds, makes strategic investments and brings the community together behind efforts to accelerate progress.
 
Our donation will go towards NPEF’s Innovation Fund, which supports initiatives to:

1.       Increase the number of third-graders reading at grade level from 34 to 75 percent
2.       Support a citywide effort to recruit, retain and reward great teachers and principals
3.       Support efforts to improve underperforming schools
4.       Increase Nashville’s college-going rate to be on par with and ultimately exceed national averages

Organizer

Carissa Reeves
Organizer
Nashville, TN

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