Where Play Meets Purpose: Join MFEE’s 'Minute to Win It'

Because adults need recess, too—and when Montclair comes together, everyone wins.

The Montclair Fund for Educational Excellence is staging another town-wide event to build community and support our public schools. This spring’s fundraiser – “Minute to Win It” – promises an evening of fast-paced party games and friendly competition, all in support of the 6,000 students who attend Montclair Public Schools.

The event will take place on Thursday, May 28, from 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. at Lackawanna Plaza.

“We invite the community to celebrate our schools and the students they nurture every day,” said Masiel Rodriquez-Vars, MFEE executive director. “This is a deeply challenging time. We hope to take a minute. Hit reset. And strengthen the community spirit needed to support our kids. In the face of our District’s budget challenges, we are doubling down on our fundraising efforts and actively working with community groups to serve Montclair students and teachers.”

MFEE seeks teams to compete and donors to support them.

The event features a crowd-sourcing fundraising model in which the public can support teams of four to six adults (21+)—made up of teachers, school staff, parents and community members—who will compete in silly challenges to earn a spot on stage for the championship round. The winning team earns major bragging rights and the gratitude of everyone who supports public education in our town. 

Community members are invited to make a donation or purchase a ticket to attend the event, cheer on the contestants, and enjoy the party.

What makes this event unique?

LeAnne Korbel, an MFEE board member, and Lauren Cancelosi, an MPS parent and MFEE volunteer, wanted to create an evening of fun to remind our community of what’s possible together. They were inspired by MFEE’s previous fundraisers like “Family Feud” and the “Amazing FundRacers.”

"We invite parents, teachers, and neighbors to come play, laugh, and take a little break with the community that supports and believes in our town's public schools,” Korbel said. “We all need some lightness right now. It will be the best recess you can imagine… and NO dodgeball!"

Over the years, more than 1,500 people have participated in MFEE crowd-fundraising events as competitors, sponsors, or volunteers. MFEE events draw town council members, principals, police officers, teachers, parents, custodians, business owners, and students.

What work does this event support?

Funds raised through this event will support MFEE’s work to nurture teachers, remove barriers to access, boost belonging and mental wellness, and build community. This includes new, targeted initiatives focused on where the need is greatest.

MFEE is launching a multi-year pilot supporting a cohort of third graders—providing consistent, hands-on math support while partnering closely with families to build skills, confidence, and advocacy at home. By staying with these students through at least fifth grade, we aim to create lasting change where gaps are widest.

MFEE is also launching “Count on Me” next fall—training Montclair High School students to lead engaging math games in YMCA aftercare programs, turning practice into play and reinforcing what students are learning in school.

MFEE is committed to working with our community and school leaders to support creative solutions like these that center students and keep our public schools strong.

To sign up to compete, donate or attend, visit: MFEE.org/minute-to-win-it. MFEE also seeks sponsors for the event, offering a chance to boost visibility while deeply investing in Montclair public school students.