Our History

Schools Count Corp. was started by Dick Flesher in 2005 after Hurricane Katrina. In its first month, the organization delivered over $750,000 in relief supplies to schools in Mississippi and New Orleans. Since then, Schools Count has provided more than $1 million in essential materials to help rebuild and support schools in the Crescent City.

 

Today our primary mission is supporting schools in the Chicagoland area. Since 2010, we’ve led an extensive anti-poverty initiative across 37 Chicago Public Schools, providing essentials such as backpacks, uniforms, winter coats, and classroom materials. We’ve helped launch music programs and strengthened sports and after-school opportunities for students as well.

In addition to our local work, we remain committed to assisting schools impacted by natural disasters. When crises arise—whether in the Midwest or beyond—we reach out to affected schools and provide whatever aid we can, from basic supplies to long-term rebuilding support.

 

While our roots are in disaster relief, our focus today is clear: strengthening local schools and reducing barriers for students throughout Chicagoland. For updates on our ongoing work, visit our Facebook or Instagram pages or check the latest news on our home page.