Dear Foundation Supporters:
The past year has been a tumultuous one for all of us. The Presidential race, local politics, the economy, budget cuts, to name just a few of the issues that have dominated the news. Yet, in spite of all we have to face as a community, you, our supporters, have steadfastly recognized that our greatest resource - our students - need and deserve your support!
The business community and the community at large continue to understand that the basis for an economically strong community is a quality public education system. Our students will be required to compete in a fast-paced and evolving global economy. It is essential, therefore, that our students receive a "world-class" education. As supporters of The Foundation, you are helping to fulfill the goal of creating and enhancing opportunities for our district public schools students and teachers.
Our supporters have not only contributed significantly financially even in these troubled economic times, but they have contributed abundantly of their time and talent. For example, during fiscal year 2007-2008, 182 volunteers from the business community contributed 910 hours of their time and talent to the Career Days Program. Our Golden Apple Selection Committee contributed approximately 830 hours of their time to the arduous task of selecting the Golden Apple recipients. And, last year, 98 mentors from the business community and the community at large, contributed 882 hours mentoring the students in the Take Stock in Children Program.
These are just a few examples of the awesome response of the community to the need for "human capital" in helping to assure the success of our programs. Your ongoing support of the Foundation's mission of enhancing the quality of public education in Lee County by increasing community involvement in, and support for, Lee County district public schools is both very much needed and appreciated!
Thank you for helping to make sure our greatest asset, our children, receive the best possible public school education. They deserve it!
Sincerely,
Marshall T. Bower, Esq.
Executive Director
The Foundation Staff
