The Canner Educational Foundation, which supports programs and opportunities for students in the Upper Adams School District, began with a simple idea: pool money, invest it for the long term, and use the earnings to enhance education for generations.
That idea took shape on March 10, 2010, when district administrators agreed to contribute their annual salary increases to launch an endowment that would operate independently from the school district. The initial fund totaled $23,916.92.
The decision came as communities across the country were still recovering from the 2008 Great Recession. By giving up their raises, the administrators created what supporters say was a powerful act of generosity that planted the seeds for the foundation’s future growth.
Since its creation, the original investment has grown tenfold, according to the foundation. As of Dec. 31, 2025, the endowment generates about $5,800 in annual distributions. That funding is supplemented by three additional endowments and proceeds from the annual Giving Spree, which together contribute roughly $17,000 each year.
Combined, the Canner funds now provide just over $30,000 annually to support initiatives that enhance the educational experience of students in the Upper Adams School District.
Foundation supporters say the story is less about financial growth than about community commitment.
“This is not a story of money growing,” the foundation notes. “This is a story of community — our community — acting together.”
In 2025, the organization took another step forward when its advisory board voted to become a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The new designation allows donors to make tax-deductible contributions throughout the year and direct their gifts toward specific educational needs.
Donations can be made through the Adams County Community Foundation website by selecting the “Donate Now” button and searching for the “Canner Education Fund of UASD Designated Endowment.” Contributions can also be mailed to the Canner Educational Foundation at 161 N. Main St., Biglerville, PA 17307.
For more information, contact the foundation at cannerfunds@upperadams.org.
By Katie Schroeder, Development Officer, Canner Educational Foundation