The Yampa Valley Community Foundation has launched the "Grow Your Own" Routt County Educator Advancement and Recruitment Fund to strengthen local schools by recruiting and retaining top educators, according to a Tuesday statement from the organization.

Backed by an anonymous $50,000 gift, the fund will provide grants to address staffing shortages and support current school employees seeking further education or credentials.

All five public school entities in Routt County -- Steamboat Springs, Hayden, South Routt, North Routt Community Charter and Steamboat Montessori -- are collaborating on the fund, which aims to address workforce challenges exacerbated by financial pressures and the housing crisis. Donations made by Aug. 31 will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $50,000, doubling the impact of community contributions.

The fund supports a variety of professional development opportunities, from helping paraprofessionals become licensed teachers to assisting current educators in earning specialized degrees. Recipients must commit to three years of service in their district, ensuring long-term benefits for local schools.

Donations are tax-deductible and can be made online or by mail to YVCF. Details on how staff can apply for grants will be shared by school districts later this summer.