(Chelsea Update would like to thank Amy Forehand for the information in this story.)
The rivalry is on.
The Chelsea Education Foundation (CEF) and the Educational Foundation of Dexter (EFD) have officially kicked off their annual Rivalry Match fundraising competition.
What began as a spirited tradition has become a powerful way for neighboring communities to come together in support of education.
Here’s how you can join the action:
The BIG GAME: Fundraising began Aug. 19 and culminates at the end of halftime during the Dexter vs. Chelsea high school football game on Sept. 26, 2025, at the Al Ritt Stadium in Dexter.
Rivalry with Purpose: While the football rivalry between Dexter and Chelsea is fierce, the foundations are united in their mission: raising money for educational grants that directly benefit local students and schools.
Track the Leaderboard: See which foundation is in the lead by checking real-time fundraising progress online.
CEF: chelseaeducationfoundation.org/2025-rivalry-match-game-on
EFD: https://www.efdexter.org/2025-rivalry-match
Fundraising in Action: Both foundations are running events and campaigns leading up to game day. Follow their social media channels to show your support and get involved.
Game-Day Giving: Attending the Sept. 26 game? You can make a donation by credit card, cash, or check during the event. Visit us at our respective tents to learn more!
Where to Give: Donations and leaderboard check-ins are available anytime at each foundation’s website:
CEF: chelseaeducationfoundation.org
Community Spirit: Beyond football, the Rivalry Match is a celebration of education and community pride, featuring fun games, giveaways, and plenty of school spirit.
Donors share why they give:
“Since graduation year 1907, 23 members of my extended family benefited from a Chelsea education. A tiny measure of gratitude for an incalculable value!” – Anonymous Donor, Chelsea Education Foundation
“We are excited to again be able to support the mission of EFD during the Rivalry Match! We appreciate all you do for Dexter schools and our future generations.” – Anonymous Family Donation, Educational Foundation of Dexter
By supporting these foundations, you’re not just contributing to grants, you’re investing in the success of students, staff, and teachers. Together, the Chelsea and Dexter communities are proving that rivalry can fuel opportunity. A special thank you to the Rivalry Match 2025 Sponsors who support both foundations – Chelsea State Bank and Steele Heating & Cooling.
Every gift matters. Every student benefits.
About Chelsea Education Foundation:
Chelsea Education Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides funding for a broad spectrum of educational activities benefiting the students of the Chelsea School District. Since 1990, $1.4 million in donations have been collected to support grants and scholarships throughout the District. Chelsea Education Foundation’s mission is to enhance the District’s educational experiences by financing projects beyond the district’s resources and by providing scholarships to district graduates.
Thank you to our CEF Rivalry 2025 Sponsors–Diane Kieliszewski – Edward Jones, John and Donna Daniels, SBK Orthodontics, Chelsea State Bank, Clark Construction Company, Esquire Interiors, Kingscott Associates, and Steel Heating & Cooling, Merkel Furniture and Carpet One.
About Educational Foundation of Dexter:
Since 1984, the Educational Foundation of Dexter has awarded over $1.4 million in teacher/district grants that support students from Pre-K to 12th Grade in the Dexter Community Schools. EFD’s mission is to empower educators with resources to bring their most creative and impactful ideas to life in the classroom. These grants have made it possible for teachers to launch hands-on STEM initiatives, enhance literacy instruction, expand arts programming, and introduce new social-emotional learning strategies. Each project enriches the educational experience and fosters a culture of curiosity, critical thinking, and achievement for our students.
Thank you to our EFD 2025 Rivalry Sponsors–Pearl Planning, Hackney Hardware, Dexter Lions Club, Beacon Dental, Chelsea State Bank, and LaFontaine Chevrolet of Dexter.
