Supporting San Benito County Schools
Connie O'Connor Education Fund
What began as a mother’s promise in 1996 has grown into one of San Benito County’s most enduring legacies of love.
After beloved teacher Connie O’Connor passed away, her wish was simple: no flowers, instead, donations to support “her kids,” the students she cherished. The Connie O’Connor
Education Fund was established that same year and later entrusted to the Community Foundation of San Benito County in 2006 to ensure long-term stewardship and sustainability.
For Joan Perreira, Connie’s mother, transferring the fund to the Foundation brought peace of mind. She wanted to ensure the fund would be protected and continue serving students for generations to come. Partnering with the Community Foundation provided not only structure and long-term oversight, but also credibility within the community. As Connie’s brother-in-law Chris shared, being part of the Foundation reinforces that this is a trusted, community-supported fund, giving donors confidence and strengthening its impact.
In 2018, the fund was nearing $100,000. Today, it is approaching $300,000, a milestone that reflects not only disciplined stewardship, but extraordinary community support.
Over the years, the fund has provided classroom libraries, hands-on math and science materials, literacy tools, and more for students from preschool through eighth grade. Teachers across San Benito County have been able to enrich their classrooms with materials that spark curiosity, strengthen reading and math skills, and build confidence in young learners.
From students proudly reading their first words to former pupils crediting Mrs. O’Connor for changing their lives, the impact continues to ripple throughout the community.
As the fund grows, so does its reach. Local educators are encouraged to apply, and community members are invited to give, ensuring Connie’s legacy lives on in every classroom it touches.
How To:
Volunteer
You can make a difference in your community by volunteering your time. Volunteers are most needed from May to July but feel free to reach out anytime to see what you can do to help.
Request Funds
Teachers and administrators may request funds for school supplies such as books or other classroom materials. For request forms and more information contact Joan Perreira at (831) 637-7185.
Donate
Donations go directly back into San Benito County schools. Your generosity will bring books to libraries, whiteboards to classrooms, and much more.
An annual raffle is also hosted by Joan. Community members can purchase tickets for a chance to win prizes generously donated by local businesses. We’re always looking for local businesses who are interested in contributing to the raffle as well.
"I remember a morning as a child I once knew the breathless whisper of spring’s first grass. As it lay sleeping on a hill each tiny blade kissed by a storm awakened and shimmering in the warmth of morning’s dawn. Here in this beauty time whispered impatiently to me for I had other things that I needed to see but of father time I implored a moment more for here in God’s dreams I found rest and in response he came to me and on my forehead placed a kiss and then the place became my own forever locked within my memory." — Mornings First Breath by Connie Colleen, 1987