Anderson Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) was recognized as the 2025 Nonprofit of the Year during Celebrate Dixon March 14, honoring the organization’s years of service and support for students, teachers and families at Anderson Elementary School. Photo by Nicolas Brown

DIXON, CA (MPG) - Anderson Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) was recognized as the 2025 Nonprofit of the Year during Celebrate Dixon March 14, honoring the organization’s years of service and support for students, teachers and families at Anderson Elementary School.

The award recognizes the nonprofit’s contributions to education, student enrichment and community engagement through fundraising, volunteer efforts and school programs.

For Anderson Elementary Teacher Lindsay Snyder, who has been a member of the organization for nine years, the announcement came as a surprise.

“I was completely shocked in the best way possible,” said Snyder. “There were so many amazing nonprofits that were nominated, and the fact that we got it was the best honor we could have won.”

The recognition reflects the work of dozens of volunteers who help organize events, support fundraising efforts and provide resources for students and staff throughout the school year.

“It meant a lot to our PTO in particular,” said Snyder. “Everything we do is for the students and staff at the end of the day, so to be recognized for what we have done is a huge honor and something we are very proud of. We want to continue doing good work and proving why we got this honor.”

The PTO supports a variety of programs and activities at Anderson Elementary, including assemblies, field trips, classroom resources and schoolwide events. Snyder said the organization’s commitment to student experiences and community involvement likely contributed to receiving the award.

“I think because we do so much for the students and try to be involved in activities for them to make school the best place for them,” she said. “We try to be involved with the community as much as we can, too, so that played a big part in it.”

Over the years, the organization has expanded its efforts to provide additional opportunities and resources for students and teachers.

“We just wanted to continue to grow and bring everything we can to our students, like assemblies, and fundraisers, and supplies,” said Snyder. “We want to do everything we can to raise money for our teachers at the school, which supports the students and their growing needs.”

Among the PTO’s largest fundraising efforts are the annual Color Run and Fall Festival. Snyder said both events rely heavily on community support and partnerships with local businesses.

For the Color Run, the organization seeks donations from community members and businesses, with proceeds helping fund field trips and student assemblies. The Fall Festival features raffles supported by donated items from local businesses, with funds benefiting classrooms and educational programs.

The PTO supports a variety of programs and activities at Anderson Elementary, including assemblies, field trips, classroom resources and schoolwide events. Photo by Nicolas Brown

“We work on experiences for the students and solidify community partnerships,” said Snyder.

Snyder credited volunteers as the driving force behind the organization’s success. Volunteers assist with tasks ranging from translation services and flyer distribution to social media management and event planning.

“The volunteers are the absolute reason we're successful,” she said. “Every volunteer is a huge factor as to why we are successful as we are.”

One of the organization’s early challenges was building volunteer participation. Snyder said the PTO began with only a small group of supporters, limiting what could be accomplished. Participation has since grown significantly.

“When I first started, it was a small group of us,” said Snyder. “Now everyone wants to come, which is great.”

As the current school year comes to a close, the PTO is already planning for next year’s events, including the Color Run, Fall Festival and Book Fair.

Snyder expressed gratitude to the students, families, staff and community members who have supported the organization.

“Thank you for continuing to support Anderson PTO,” she said. “We could not do it without the support of students, staff and community, and we look forward to continue hosting events for years to come.”

She also encouraged other nonprofit organizations to remain committed to their missions.

“Don't give up, because everything you do has a positive impact on the students and the community and it's appreciated,” said Snyder. “Continue to show up for the kids because they're our future.”

For more information, visit Anderson Elementary PTO on Facebook or email [email protected].