Dr. SeUss is read to a group of students at an event Battle Ground Education Foundation partnered on with the Kiwanis Club earlier this year.
At 5:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 24, the Battle Ground Education Foundation (BGEF) will hold its first annual fundraiser at the Battle Ground Community Center, 912 E. Main Street.
BGEF has been operating since 1994 as a nonprofit, volunteer-only organization. Their goal is to help fund education in areas where they see a void. According to their website, www.bgef.org, they have been able provide students and educators with more than $200,000 worth of various materials and programs.
As a part of an overall rebranding — including a new logo and a stronger social media presence — BGEF is hoping this event will bring awareness to their cause and help them better connect with the community. Although they have been in operation for over two decades, Foundation President Coleen O’Neal is surprised at how few people know about the organization, and of those who do, how few know how to help.
O’Neal, who retired as principal of River Home-link last year and has taught in the area since 1987, views this event as a way to “kick-off the next phase of their foundation.” She believes it imperative the community is knowledgeable of the work that BGEF is doing and hopes that their support continues.
In a press release announcing the event and explaining its importance, the BGEF stated, “We believe that all Battle Ground students deserve a bright and productive future, and we need help from the community to do this. School Days Dinner and Auction will be about showing your school spirit with your caring community leaders and raise funds to continue the Battle Ground Education Foundation’s mission. We thank our sponsors, Riverview Bank and IQ Credit Union, for helping us to make this event possible.”
The event’s main attractions are the auctions. There will be a live auction for the adrenaline junkies and a silent one for the more subdued of the crowd. According to their press release, silent auction items include, “baskets and items for a variety of interests and enjoyments such as symphony tickets, magic show, gym memberships, entertainment packages, wine tasting, personal care items, family activities, and more.” Live auction items include, “a Top Guides NW fishing excursion for two with hotel, Girl Scout cookies, and bourbon tasting dinner hosted by Mill Creek Pub, Timbers ticket and basket, Blazer tickets and basket, Imperial Lace drop pearl necklace and earring set, and more.”
In addition to the silent and live auctions, there will also be a photo booth set up, where kids and adults alike can enjoy having unique and fun pictures taken. There will also be games and a desert dash.
The theme for the night will be “Show your School Spirit.” Those in attendance are encouraged to proudly flaunt their school colors and attire.
Ticket prices are $50 and can be purchased online at, bgef.ejoinme.org/2016Registration. For more information call (360) 798-0739.
