Chicago Steel, FONA International help raise $4,800 to support Geneva schools
The Chicago Steel and FONA International celebrated the success of a recent fundraiser which raised more than $4,800 for the Geneva Academic Foundation.
As part of a Nov. 11 home victory against the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders, Chicago Steel hosted "Excellence On Ice: A Benefit for Geneva School District 304 and the Geneva Academic Foundation," presented by FONA International.
The Steel wore special Geneva Vikings-themed jerseys during warm-ups. The jerseys were auctioned off, as were items such as a team-autographed stick, a suite for 15 to an upcoming game, and a variety of gift baskets, with all proceeds benefiting the foundation. A portion of ticket sales raised additional funds for the foundation.
The Excellence On Ice game was presented by FONA International, a Geneva-based flavor company which actively promotes science education in the community through its "Discover FONA" program, teaching students about food and flavor science.
"The event was a big success," said Jeff Vekony, board member. "Over $4,800 was raised to help fund grants and scholarships for the schools and students of Geneva School District 304, and many families attended who had never been to a hockey game at the Fox Valley Ice Arena and said they had a lot of fun and look forward to coming back for more Steel games in the future. We look forward to working with the Steel and FONA on future such events."
"It was a special night," said Lehv. "To see our fans come together to support the Geneva schools, and with current Geneva High School student, Graham Lillibridge, scoring the game-winning goal, the event was a success both on and off the ice."
The Steel have worked closely with the foundation since the team's arrival in Geneva last season, including promoting Teacher Appreciation Night on April 8, 2016 which included a check donation from the Steel to the foundation that went toward scholarships for two Geneva High School graduating seniors.
For tickets or more information, call (855) 51-STEEL, stop by the box office or visit ChicagoSteelHockeyTeam.com.
The Chicago Steel are competing in their 17th season in the USHL and their second season playing at Fox Valley Ice Arena in Geneva. Steel players are recruited from across the country and internationally, and are assigned a host family and adviser to arrange housing and education options while with the organization. Education and development as a player and individual is key to the Steel's success and has earned 185 players Division I scholarships, as well as 27 NHL Draft picks. Players, coaches, and the team mascot Rusty, visit local schools and nonprofits to pass along their message of character, education, and teaching how to Live Strong as Steel. The Steel focuses on providing family-friendly entertainment to the Fox Valley at affordable pricing. Follow the team on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram: @ChicagoSteel.
The Geneva Academic Foundation strives to provide students new educational experiences, ideas, and opportunities by funding grants for technology, services, programs and equipment for teachers, schools and classrooms throughout Geneva Unit District 304. It has awarded over $1,300,000 in grants since its founding in 1987.
Grants have been given for GTV television studio equipment in Geneva High School, heart-rate monitors for elementary school physical education classes, multiple classroom SMART Boards and standing desks, computers, software, document cameras, Starlab, microscopes, skeletons, books, reading aids, and many other items. In addition, the foundation annually funds two college scholarships for two Geneva High School seniors. The scholarships are awarded on the basis of merit and an essay written by the student.