Avondale Education Foundation Golf Outing nets $11,000

Students, staff and community leaders teed up last week at the Avondale Education Foundation’s 17th Annual Golf Classic. The event, organized by Foundation members, partnered local businesses and educators in support of expanding educational and enrichment opportunities throughout the Avondale School District which serves Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, Troy and Bloomfield Hills residents.

The Avondale Education Foundation (AEF) has been funding classroom initiatives since the early 1990s. In that time, the group has raised more than $170,000 for scholarships, grants and special projects. Scholarships are awarded annually to graduating seniors and grant disbursements occur twice each school year through the group’s Dare to Dream program. Dare to Dream challenges teachers and staff members to explore and create opportunities for Avondale School District students that go beyond the classroom. The program has funded special projects and programming that include Deerfield Elementary School’s Superhero Training Academy, Avondale Middle School’s All-Girls Robotics Team, Woodland Elementary School’s Bridge Buddy Club and Avondale High School’s Art Workshop. In addition, the Foundation goes beyond the traditional classroom by supporting the District’s English Language Learners (ELL) and Special Education students by funding initiatives that have included the purchase of Special Olympics team uniforms; iPads and software applications; and kitchen equipment to teach students with special needs how to prepare their own meals.

President of K&S Ventures and AEF Board Member, Sid Blomberg, is a longtime supporter of the Golf Classic and other Foundation fundraisers. He understands the important role the Foundation plays in providing resources that expand the classroom experience and result in more opportunities for student growth. “Sponsoring AEF events is a great way for the community to support our Avondale students. The money goes directly to the classrooms – every dollar makes a difference in our kid’s educational experience.”

In addition to the event’s Purple Sponsor K&S Ventures; Gold Sponsor technology-based InaCOMP TSG; and Hole-in-One Sponsor Oakland University Credit Union, other sponsors included AUCH Construction Company, Baker College, French Associates, Chartwells Dining Services, Enviro-Clean, Courtesy Driving School, Rochester Bike Shop, Sturgeon Painting, Summer Breeze Lawn Care, Kingswood Chiropractic Center and Towing and Equipment Magazine.

AEF Board Member and Avondale teacher, Kim Nash, who chaired the event was pleased with the outcome of the fundraiser. “The golf outing was fantastic! A beautiful day and tons of fun! Heartfelt thanks to all who played, sponsored a hole or a cart, or donated a prize. The students and staff of Avondale School District will greatly benefit from the participant’s generosity.”

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