Lake Washington Schools Foundation annual benefit goes virtual
Even with schools open for hybrid learning, the Lake Washington Schools Foundation (LWSF) is not taking any chances and will continue to host its annual fundraiser as a virtual event.
The foundation’s 15th annual Be the Bridge benefit will take place on Thursday, April 29, starting at 7:00 p.m.
Attendees can look forward to guest speakers include Shannon O’Donnell, a Redmond high school graduate and current meteorologist for KOMO 4 News, and Justin Rupple, a stand-up comedian and actor. A student jazz band will also play during the event.
LWSF is a nonprofit organization that works directly to support students of the Lake Washington School District and their families.
At the benefit, the foundation plans to share how it has adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic to keep many programs running throughout this past year.
“We are going to be highlighting a new program that the district and the cities of Kirkland and Redmond and the Foundation are partnering on,” said Katy Philips, LWSF’s interim executive director. “We are bringing a Communities in Schools program to the district, which is a new way to support families and address barriers that may be getting in the way of students’ education.”
Other new programs include a library diversification project for all schools in the district, as well as mental health training for teachers to help support students.
Volunteers of the programs and families impacted by the programs will share their stories at the event.
The tickets for the benefit are free, and the event is open to any member of the public. Pre-registration is required to receive the link to attend.
Although not required, a donation option will be open throughout the event. Any money raised will help fund the new programs as well as pre-existing ones such as Pantry Packs and Balance in Mind that help students and families across the school district.
Donations will continue to be accepted after the event is over.
To register for the Be the Bridge benefit, please visit the Lake Washington Schools Foundation website. The benefit will also be recorded for anyone who cannot make the event or wishes to view it at a different time.
