Dist. 62 Foundation raises almost $14,000
The District 62 Foundation hosted its annual dinner and fundraiser Friday, Feb. 24, at Café la Cave. The theme, “Reach to Teach,” signifies the mission of the Foundation mini-grant program, which expands learning opportunities for students that are not funded through the school district’s budget. Proceeds from silent auctions and raffles will provide grants to teachers during the 2012-2013 school year. This year, $35,000 was donated to classrooms across the district.
“We raised approximately $14,000 this year,” said Debbie Post, Foundation president and event co-chair. “The money is used by the Foundation to provide classroom teachers with opportunities they would not otherwise enjoy, thereby improving the quality of our children’s education through unique and interesting projects. This helps ensure that we continue our tradition of excellence in District 62.”
The benefit, which is a community event, featured themed baskets donated by D62 schools, sporting event tickets and sports memorabilia, hotel packages, performing arts tickets, dinner cruises, and day trips donated by local businesses and community members. Iroquois Community School teachers Shannon Bemben, Jessie Arnold, and Sara Heiman won the signature raffle, Northwest Pacific Adventure. They will enjoy a weeklong stay in a condo in Redmond, Wash.
Entertainment was provided by St. Luke’s Bottle Band and directed by Professor Paul Phillips. The highlight of the evening was a solo performed by associate superintendent Paul Hertel.
The District 62 Foundation was officially launched in October 2001, to raise and channel donations for creative and innovative projects that provide special opportunities for staff and students in the school district.
“By securing resources to support quality education, we are working together to create opportunities for our children and investing in our future,” said Reach to Teach chairman and Foundation past President Betty Murphy.
The District 62 Foundation is an independent entity working closely with, but not directly affiliated with Community Consolidated School District 62. It provides support exclusively for District 62 schools. The tax-deductible donations supplement tax dollars that provide for the education of more than 4,666 students.
Visit www.d62.org/d62foundation for more information about the District 62 Foundation. If you would like to pledge your financial or volunteer support, contact Mindy Ward, District 62 director of Community Relations and Foundation board member, at wardm@d62.org or 847-824-8070.