Lincoln Elementary 4th graders learn meaning of philanthropy by doing

COVINGTON, Ky. — Fourth-grade students from Lincoln Elementary School took on the role of philanthropists this week, awarding a $1,000 donation to a local nonprofit as part of an innovative Adopt A Class program.

The event, held at the OneNKY Center, marked the culmination of a months-long mentorship experience led by community partners including EducateNKY, the Catalytic Fund and Horizon Community Foundation of Northern Kentucky.

Through the program, students explored what it means to build strong communities, researched local nonprofits and evaluated real-world issues before hearing final presentations from organizations including Learning Grove, Go Pantry and Emergency Shelter. After the presentations, students voted Go Pantry. would receive the $1,000 donation. “Partnering with Adopt a Class has brought opportunities and experiences to our students that they otherwise would not have had,” said Dayton Independent School District Superintendent, Rick Wolf. “Opportunities such as a visit to the OneNKY Center or listening to a local entrepreneur speak could introduce a child to something they’ve never seen or heard before. I am beyond excited that we are partnering with Adopt a Class.”

The Adopt A Class program connects teams of local professionals with students through monthly classroom visits focused on career exploration, skill building and hands-on learning. A key component of the program includes exposing students to real workplaces and career pathways.

“This experience gives students a powerful opportunity to see how they can make a real impact in their community,” said Sonya Fultz, CEO, Adopt A Class. “They’re not just learning about philanthropy, they’re practicing it.”
At Lincoln Elementary, the program was implemented across all fourth-grade classrooms, with the “philanthropy project” curriculum developed specifically for their school.

“This program helps students connect what they’re learning in the classroom to real-world opportunities and careers,” said Fultz. “It’s an investment not only in their education, but in their future.” With support from EducateNKY, Adopt A Class has seen significant growth across the region, adding 45 new mentor teams this year, primarily in Northern Kentucky’s River Cities. The program is now active in nearly every River City district, expanding access to career-connected learning experiences for students.

Beyond student impact, the program also delivers measurable benefits for participating businesses. A recent University of Cincinnati study found that employees involved in Adopt A Class report increased job satisfaction, stronger workplace pride and improved retention, highlighting the value of community engagement for both students and employers.

“Teaching students about collective impact aligns with our vision to ignite every eager, vibrant mind and helps them see what’s possible when we all work together,” said Cheye Calvo, president and CEO of EducateNKY.