OXFORD — In 2013, the Oxford Hills Community Education Exchange is celebrating its 20th anniversary and five local businesses have agreed to support the Education Exchange’s annual appeal by launching a matching grant challenge.

In 20 years, the organization has experienced incredible growth and has seen some amazing accomplishments that have helped classify OHCEE as a community leader. OHCEE is now a vital part of the community, working to ensure that each students — from kindergarten to high school and beyond — learns the true value of education and takes full advantage of the resources that the Oxford Hills community has to offer.

All donations made to the annual fund will be matched by grants from Bancroft Contracting Corporation, Suzanne and Rupert Grover, New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc., Norway Savings Bank and Paris Farmers Union.

“The Education Exchange is extremely honored that these five local businesses and community members have agreed to support our 20th anniversary by donating a total of $10,000,” said Maureen Mooney-Howard, director of the Education Exchange. “Most of these partners were founding members of the Education Exchange in 1993 and all have been invaluable partners to our students throughout the history of the Education Exchange.”

The Board of Directors of the Education Exchange is dedicated to raising an additional $10,000 to meet the matching grants challenge and secure a total of $20,000. Donations from individuals in the community support valuable programs such as school-business partnerships, community internships and college visits that allow Oxford Hills students to achieve their post-secondary aspirations.

Anyone wishing to make a contribution or who would like additional information may contact Maureen at 743-8914, ext. 5209, or send a check, made out to Oxford Hills Community Education Exchange, to 1570 Main St., Oxford ME 04270.