How Boosters Support Students
East thrives because our community shows up. The Boosters Club connects families, alumni, and community members who want to make a meaningful difference in the lives of East students. Your generosity helps clubs, teams, and enrichment programs grow – building the experiences that make East such a vibrant place to learn, compete, create, and belong. Explore the ways we support student groups and see how your donation strengthens the East community.
Grants for Enrichment and Fundraising
Teams, clubs and enrichment programs can apply for Boosters grants to support a project, event, or initiative, or to help launch a fundraiser. For example, the cross-country team could apply for a $300 start-up grant to purchase cowbells to sell at meets, then use the profits from bell sales to buy new team tents. Or, the French Club could apply for an $800 grant to help offset the coast of a coach bus for a trip to the Haitian Art Museum in Chicago.
All requests are reviewed by the Principal or Athletic Director and then voted on the Boosters Club. During the 2025-2026 school year, the Boosters will consider requests up to $1,000. For more information, visit our Grants page.
Concessions as a Fundraising Opportunity
Teams and clubs can earn money by staffing concessions shifts at East sporting events. Funds are deposited into the club or team’s activity account and can be spent as the club advisor or team coach sees fit – no further Boosters approval required. For more information, email concessions@easthighboosters.org.
501(c)(3) Status and Fiscal Agency
Teams and clubs may use the Boosters as their 501(c)(3) fiscal agent, making them eligible for grants and funding opportunities that require nonprofit status. For example, the boys’ tennis team secured a USTA grant for a new racket stringing machine, funding they could not have accessed without 501(c)(3) status. The Boosters can also hold funds on behalf of a group until they are ready to make a purchase. For more information, email treasurer@easthighboosters.org.
50/50 Raffles through the Boosters License
The Boosters hold an official 50/50 raffle license, allowing clubs and teams to hold 50/50 raffles at events, where half the proceeds go to the winner and the other half goes to the team or club. The Boosters ensure the raffle is run legally and in compliance with state requirements. For more information, email treasurer@easthighboosters.org.
How We Raise Funds
East High Boosters raises money through community donations, concessions, merch sales, Dining Out nights, and signature events like Party for Purgolders and the Great East Side Bakeoff. Every dollar we raise goes directly back to East students through grants, equipment, supplies, and support for clubs, teams, and activities.
How You Can Help
You can support these efforts by making a donation, volunteering at an event, or joining our mailing list to stay up-to-date on what we’re doing.