American Legion Post 668 has made a $12,000 gift to fund four innovative educational initiatives that will benefit hundreds of students across multiple schools in the Vandalia-Butler school district.
It is the largest gift any organization has ever given to the VISIONS Fund, which annually awards grants to teachers in the district, according to Denise Eder, chair of VISIONS and co-chair of the Vandalia-Butler Foundation.
“We’re so grateful for this generous gift, which will enhance hands-on learning, expand access to the arts, and support student wellness and development,” Eder said.
For American Legion Post 668, the gift reflects a continued commitment to supporting young people in the community.
“We have always been a proud partner in encouraging the growth of our youth through both experiences and education,” said Commander Jerome “JJ” Casinger.
At Butler High School, a $1,636 grant will fund new kitchen equipment for cooking classes, supporting approximately 130 students each semester.
Morton Middle School receives two grants totaling $6,225, including funding for iPads and equipment to digitally archive student artwork, as well as expanded display capacity for its annual “Elevate the Arts” exhibit, which could grow to include up to 1,800 student works.
At Smith Intermediate School, a $4,135 grant will support the development of a motor sensory room for students in grades 3–5, providing structured activities to improve focus and regulation, particularly for students with special needs.
In total, the Vandalia-Butler Foundation awarded a record $36,940 in educational grants in 2026.
For those wishing to contribute to the VISIONS Fund, tax-deductible donations can be mailed to VISIONS Fund, c/o The Dayton Foundation, 1401 S. Main St., Suite 100, Dayton, OH 45409-2600. To make an online donation, visit vandalia-butlerfoundation.org/visions.
The Vandalia-Butler Foundation is a component fund of The Dayton Foundation. Leadership for the foundation rests within the local community, while fiscal oversight is provided by The Dayton Foundation, which serves the Dayton/Miami Valley region. This partnership allows the Vandalia-Butler community to benefit from local leadership while leveraging broader investment resources.
(Photo by Mary Stephens. Pictured left to right: Rob O’Leary, superintendent of Vandalia-Butler City Schools; Commander Jerome “JJ” Casinger of American Legion Post 668; Denise Eder, chair of VISIONS and co-chair of the Vandalia-Butler Foundation; and Jordan Shumaker, treasurer of the Vandalia-Butler City Schools.)