Christmas Fund Drive

December 3, 2025 / Abigail Cook

Eastern Mennonite School is embracing the holiday season with its 77th annual Christmas Fund Drive, themed “Where the Light Begins: Growing Generosity, Growing Hope.” The campaign began December 2 with “Giving Tuesday!” Inspired by the HS Neighbor Club Prayer and Action which is led by Shannon Roth, and the EMES theme for the year: Hope in the Wilderness, and Jan Richardson’s poem of the same name. Christmas Fund Drive is a long standing tradition at EMS where students and donors come together to illuminate the spirit of giving, engage our community, and raise funds. We are continually inspired by our students and our donors.

Richardson’s words, “Perhaps this day the light begins in us,” resonate deeply with the drive’s mission, encouraging individuals to let their good deeds shine brightly. This year’s scripture lesson, from Matthew 5:14-16, further underscores this message:

“You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others.”

Under the guidance of Director of Advancement Trisha Blosser, students have begun preparations for this year’s drive, continuing a tradition that has been part of EMS for over 77 years. The 2025-2026 Christmas Fund Drive will raise $150,000 for the Flames Fund, supporting student access, educator excellence, campus improvements, core values, and strengthens our vision and mission.

Ms. Blosser working with this year’s fund drive students

As students reach out to potential donors, they invite participation in a legacy that has grown stronger each year. EMS celebrates this enduring tradition, hoping to inspire generosity, service, and integrity among its community. The students who volunteer for these leadership positions and write fund drive cards get the opportunity to actively reflect on their experience as students, in some cases students get to see the direct impact of the ask: they are met with generosity.

Christmas Fund Drive helps our school broadly, but the process and work of the Fund Drive help our students learn how to lead. Students at EMS gain invaluable hands-on experience that prepares them for future careers, education, and leadership roles in volunteering. They have the opportunity to:

Develop leadership skills by actively engaging and setting an example for peers.
Build meaningful relationships by connecting with supporters and mentors.
Contribute to the community through service and outreach initiatives.

EMS benefits from students who graduate with a deep understanding of gratitude, the importance of service, and the ability to inspire others to join.

The Flames Fund supports:

Students: Increasing accessibility for more students to attend EMS.
Educators: Enhancing academics, experiential learning, and faculty development for continuous professional growth.
Campus: Maintaining and upgrading facilities, outdoor environments, athletic fields, and automotive fleets, while ensuring the stewardship of existing buildings and grounds.
Core Values: Promoting a faith community, restorative justice practices, and compassionate service through student projects and trips.

How does this fit in the big picture for EMS?

Contributions form a vital part of EMS’s financial health, accounting for 12.2% of the total budget. Tuition covers 78%, while miscellaneous sources contribute 9.8%. The Christmas Fund Drive aims to raise $150,000 towards the $585,000 annual fund, supporting these core initiatives and values.

As part of the broader holiday season activities, EMS will also host holiday concerts and events, bringing the community together in celebration and support. For more information on the history of the Christmas Fund Drive and how to contribute, click here.

We invite you to help us explore this season, where the light begins…