Role of Hudson's Bay Foundation in the funding ecosystem
Hudson's Bay Foundation (HBF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit booster club created in 2010 to support the students of Hudson's Bay High School in Vancouver, Washington. The foundation raises money from alumni, parents, staff, local businesses and community events, then channels these resources back to the school through a structured grant process. Its stated primary purpose is to support all aspects of Hudson's Bay through the issuing of grants, and it has awarded more than $100,000 in grant funds since its creation.
HBF funds a wide range of school needs, including academic programs, athletics, arts, clubs and student support initiatives. The grants page notes that the foundation manages funds and offers tax-exempt fundraising status for many sports and activities, such as basketball, football, cross country, music, drama, FFA/horticulture, DECA/ACES Magnet, and various classes and student services. This makes HBF a central financial hub for extracurricular and enrichment activities at the school.
General grant process and eligibility
HBF operates an ongoing grant request process tied to its monthly board meetings. Applicants submit a standardized grant application form, which must be fully completed and signed by a school administrator. Requests are due by the Friday before the foundation’s regular Tuesday meeting, and late submissions are not considered by email vote. Grant proposals must be presented in person or by a representative at the meeting, reinforcing transparency and direct dialogue with decision-makers.
The foundation expects feedback on all approved grants, including photos and updates that can be shared on its website and social media. When appropriate, it asks that events or activities acknowledge HBF as a sponsor and display “Sponsored by HBF” signage, helping maintain visibility of the foundation’s impact.
Supported audiences and overall impact
HBF’s funding is focused on the Hudson's Bay High School community. Eligible requests typically come from school programs, coaches, activity advisors, and recognized committees that align with the foundation’s purposes. New committees can petition the foundation for recognition by submitting a proposal that describes their activity and demonstrates consistency with HBF’s mission. Recognized committees are expected to participate in monthly meetings through a chairperson or designated alternate.
Through its combination of grants, scholarship opportunities and managed line-item accounts, HBF enables many programs to access resources that go beyond standard school budgets. Its annual events—such as a golf tournament, bingo party, alumni class challenges and other fundraisers—provide recurring revenue streams that sustain these grants year after year.
Transparency, governance and community involvement
Hudson's Bay Foundation maintains a regular schedule of meetings and publishes meeting minutes by year on its website, supporting accountability in how funds are allocated. Community members are invited to attend events, donate online, and engage in class competitions that raise money for current students. Governing documents are available on request, further emphasizing responsible governance.
Overall, HBF serves as a dedicated, school-focused funding organization that translates community generosity into tangible financial support for student experiences and success at Hudson's Bay High School.