Drake’s Ray Center Expands CHARACTER COUNTS! with $530K in Grants

Expansion made possible by $530,000 in grants to The Ray Center at Drake University

Drake University’s Robert D. and Billie Ray Center has made significant strides in expanding its CHARACTER COUNTS! program, thanks to $530,000 in grants. This initiative has enabled the distribution of early childhood resources to 1,687 classrooms in Polk County, effectively doubling the program’s reach and impacting over 30% of classrooms throughout Iowa.

These resources, provided at no cost to classrooms, include lesson plans, family guides, music, and posters. Educators have the option to attend training sessions at The Ray Center or participate in webinars.

“Our goal is to get CHARACTER COUNTS! into every classroom in the state of Iowa,” stated Scott Raeker, executive director of The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University. “We’ve seen a phenomenal response to these resources and are incredibly thankful for these grants, which will significantly expand our reach within Central Iowa.”

The announcement was made during a gathering at the Gregory and Suzie Glazer Burt Club at Drake University on May 15. The event featured several speakers, including:

• Scott Raecker, Executive Director, The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center
• Walter Lauridsen, The Lauridsen Family Foundation
• Cassidy LeCroy, Director, The Bob & Billie Ray Child Development Center
• Marty Martin, President, Drake University

Watch a full recording of the event.

Proven results

The CHARACTER COUNTS! initiative has consistently demonstrated positive impacts on student outcomes. Schools in Buffalo, New York, for example, saw an 8.7% rise in high school graduation rates, a 6.7% improvement in attendance, and notable increases in both elementary math and English proficiency rates. See more results from schools across the country.

Grants to make it possible

The $530,000 in funding originated from the Lauridsen Family Foundation, Prairie Meadows Legacy Grant Program, Polk County Community Development and Community Betterment program, and the Gartner Family Foundation. These grants are designed to enhance student character, social-emotional skills, and academic performance, while also fostering a positive school environment.

“I’m incredibly proud of the work The Ray Center is doing to live up to Drake’s inspiration statement of transforming lives and strengthening communities,” expressed Drake University president Marty Martin. “As the global home for CHARACTER COUNTS!, the generous support of our community partners and donors is impacting the lives of youth not just in our community, but the lives of more than 9 million youth worldwide.”