For over three decades, RAFT has been fortunate to be supported by partners who believe deeply in the power of hands-on learning. Among them is The Mark & Carolyn Guidry Foundation, longtime champions of education, creativity, and opportunity for all students. 

Founded in 1994, the Guidry Foundation was established by Mark and Carolyn Guidry to support education and the arts, causes that reflected both their personal values and lived experiences. As engineering graduates who came from underserved schools, Mark and Carolyn understood firsthand how access to meaningful resources can shape a student’s future.

Mark and Carolyn Guidry, champions of education and founders of the Guidry Foundation
Mark and Carolyn Guidry, champions of education and founders of the Guidry Foundation

“They loved supporting RAFT from its inception and how RAFT provides children an opportunity for creative learning using their hands and minds,” shared Gayle Dilley, daughter of Mark and Carolyn. “The continued success of RAFT was a ‘Beautiful Story’ to them.”

That story continues today.

A Lasting Commitment Through the RAFT Endowment Fund

Now managed by Gayle and her brothers, the foundation remains a proud and active supporter of RAFT. Establishing a named endowment fund in honor of their parents was a natural next step–one that ensures Mark and Carolyn’s legacy will support educators and students for generations to come.

The Guidry Foundation Board, (L-R) David Guidry, Gayle Dilley, and Mike Guidry
The Guidry Foundation Board, (L-R) David Guidry, Gayle Dilley, and Mike Guidry

“Our parents were both engineering graduates who came from underserved schools where resources were always needed,” Gayle shared. “A RAFT endowment supporting resources for underserved schools in their name is a wonderful way for us to honor them.”

Through the RAFT Endowment Fund, donations like those from the Guidry Foundation provide sustained support for professional development, classroom materials, and hands-on STEAM learning, especially for schools and districts with the greatest need.

Building the Future Together

Endowment gifts play a critical role in RAFT’s long-term sustainability, allowing us to respond to educator needs, expand access, and continue inspiring joy through hands-on learning. The Guidry Foundation’s commitment is a powerful example of how philanthropy can create lasting impact beyond a single year or program.

Interested in Establishing Your Own Named Fund?

If you’re inspired by the Guidry family’s story and would like to explore creating a named endowment fund at RAFT, we’d love to connect. For more information or to establish your own fund, contact Development Director Kate Ball at kball@raft.net. 

Together, we can ensure that hands-on learning continues to thrive for future generations.