Foundation Approaches Goal As Spring Recognition Reception Nears

The Foundation for Saline Area Schools hosts its Spring Recognition Reception at the Stonebridge Golf Club from 5-8 p.m. Thursday.

The annual free event is held to recognize the Saline Area Schools programs that were funded with foundation mini-grants. 

At this year’s reception, the smiles will be a little wider.

According to Foundation for Saline Area Schools Board of Directors President Cheryl Hoeft, the foundation expects to reach its $65,000 fundraising goal at Thursday’s event.

The money is being raised to fund the expansion of the Project Lead the Way science, technology, engineering and math curriculum in the middle school.

“We’re confident that we’ll be able to make it official at the Spring Recognition Reception,” Hoeft said.

The $65,000 fundraising campaign marked and important shift in the foundation’s role. In the past, the foundation helped fund small programs, like the afterschool construction and earthquake simulation program, with mini-grants of up to $1,000. Hoeft said she expected the foundation will continue to partner with Saline Area Schools to help fund larger programs.

“With the way budgeting is being done and tax dollars are coming in, we’re one of the only things a district can rely on to fund new programs,” Hoeft said.

Saline Area Schools District Superintendent Scot Graden said the foundation’s increased support is timely.

“It’s one of those really positive things at time when we’re facing many challenges,” Graden said. “The fact that the public supported their fundraiser is very encouraging. They’re really close to meeting their goal, so I hope people come to the reception ready to support to the foundation.”

Thursday’s spring reception will include demonstrations of the projects funded by foundation grants.

There is more fundraising to do. During a silent auction, guests can bid on press box seats to a Saline football game and a weekend at a cottage up north. Detroit Tiger Brandon Inge, a Saline resident, has also donated memorabilia for the auction.

Guests can also to pay to play games such as “Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader” or “Card Shark.” There will also be a putting contest. Prizes include an iPod, iPad, a round of golf for four, and more.

Entertainment will be provided by the Saline High School Jazz Combo and Chamber Ensemble. Hors d’oeuvres will be served. There is a cash bar.

The Spring Recognition Reception is free. Guests are asked to RSVP by emailing rediesc@saline.k2.mi.us or calling 429-8015. Stonebridge Golf Club is located at 1825 Clubhouse Drive, Ann Arbor.