In 2003, the Chico High School Foundation (CHSF) was formed. Three years later it oversees more than $270,000 in donor advised and endowed funds. It began when three teachers asked the retiring principal, Roger Williams, to start a 501(c)(3) foundation in order to qualify for private sector grant opportunities. Williams and a dedicated group of former CHS employees, alumni, and parents formed a committee, established by-laws, developed a brochure and asked the North Valley Community Foundation (NVCF) to be part of the effort. The NVCF accepted the CHSF application, and the Chico High Foundation was launched in full partnership with the NVCF.