Annual foundation breakfast supports Naperville students

For more than 30 years, the Naperville 203 Education Foundation has hosted a fundraising breakfast to create opportunities for students beyond the school district’s tax-supported budget.

Today, that event has grown into the cornerstone of the foundation’s fundraising efforts. Set for 7-9 a.m. Wednesday, April 16, the 32nd annual Building a Passion Breakfast takes place at The Matrix Club, 808 S. Route 59, Naperville.

“The Naperville Education Foundation mission is to encourage creativity, innovation and excellence in our students by helping to ensure that every student in Naperville 203 can take advantage of opportunities to make the most of their education,” said Wendy Goettsch, Executive Director of the Naperville Education Foundation. “This year’s breakfast is already shaping up to be our most attend yet.”

With the theme “There’s No Place Like 203,” this year’s Building a Passion Breakfast will highlight the impact of NEF programs through videos, a special newspaper showcasing NEF’s initiatives, student artwork that includes an interactive art installation and a student performance. Attendees will include more than 400 business, community and elected leaders, as well as District 203 officials, parents and community members coming together to witness the powerful impact their support has on student learning.

“We are also excited to welcome a Naperville Central High School alumnus as our guest speaker and Kaylin Risvold, President and CEO of the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, as emcee,” Goettsch said.

The breakfast is presented by The Gerald Auto Group, a longtime proud supporter of the Naperville Education Foundation. Goettsch said Dr. Virginia “Ginny” Gerald and her husband Neil, were among several founders of NEF, with Ginny serving on the first Board of Trustees and continuing to be involved for many years.

“The Gerald family’s belief in the power of education and NEF’s mission has allowed the foundation to empower countless students since its inception in 1992,” Goettsch said. “It’s inspiring to see their legacy of belief and support continue through their sons, Doug and Matt Gerald, ensuring that future generations of students have access to transformative opportunities. Naperville 203 is a special place because of the unwavering support of our community, and families like the Geralds make all the difference — we are truly grateful.”

Donna Lawler of The Gerald Auto Group said Gerald is honored to continue being part of this longtime fundraiser.

“What makes this event so special is how it brings our entire community together to celebrate and support the potential of every student in District 203,” Lawler said. “Each year, we see firsthand the incredible impact NEF has — from funding creative projects to opening doors that would otherwise remain closed. It’s a morning filled with inspiration and a shared commitment to students.”

For more information on the Building a Passion Breakfast, visit nef203.org/events-news/buildingapassion.html. For more information on the Gerald Auto Group, visit geraldcars.com.