Spring Luncheon Raises Funds for Operation School Bell® Programs

Assistance League^® of Northern Virginia recently hosted its annual Spring Luncheon to raise funds for the non-profit's activities benefiting children in need at eleven Title I schools in Fairfax and Prince William Counties and the City of Alexandria. Operation School Bell^® Programs include Weekend Food for Kids, New Clothing for Kids and Reading Express which touch the lives of more than 6,000 children. The fundraiser also supports the Hugs program, which provides comfort items to low income children undergoing medical procedures at the Inova Cares Clinic in Falls Church.

The event, held this year at the Country Club of Fairfax, was attended by over 120 members and guests who generously supported the silent and live auctions of a wide range of items donated by local businesses. Fundraising efforts were also supported by individual donations and contributions from event sponsors Quadrant, Joyce Koons Honda Buick GMC, NOVEC, Spine Care of Manassas Chiropractic and Manassas Honda Kawasaki Suzuki. The Spring Luncheon was organized by fundraising chair Karen Amster, working in collaboration with event committees to coordinate an enjoyable event. Assistance League President Kathy Jackson chaired the event, expressing the organization's appreciation to corporate sponsors. Attendees representing all of the elementary schools participating in Operation School Bell^® Programs were also recognized, as well as other special guests who actively support the organization's programs in a variety of ways.

Jay Nocco, principal of Lynnbrook Elementary School, spoke to attendees about the direct benefits of Assistance League programs as well as the importance of children recognizing that there is community support to meet needs. The keynote speaker was Tony Perkins, co-host of MAJIC 102.3/92.7 and Fox 5 News Anchor. Mr. Perkins spoke with humor and insight about the importance of family and school personnel for him personally in encouraging him to be the best he could be growing up. He stressed how his experiences underscore the importance of giving back, and expressed appreciation for the many ways Assistance League programs support children in becoming the best they can be, an important aspect of children recognizing they are valued.

As the key annual fundraising activity for Assistance League of Northern Virginia, the money raised through the Spring Luncheon will enhance the organization's ability to meet needs of low income children within our local communities.

To learn more, visit www.assistanceleague.org/northern-virginia