‘Love of Lincoln-Way’ generates over $30,000 in net proceeds

The Lincoln-Way High School District 201 Foundation for Educational Excellence hosted its annual gala and auction virtually this year - but the event was still very successful.

“Love of Lincoln-Way” was held on Feb. 20, and it raised more than $30,000 in net proceeds, a news release from foundation said.

Foundation Executive Director Bob Kennedy and Foundation Board President Stacie McGlone hosted the night.

Attendees were able to bid virtually on gift baskets that individuals and local businesses had donated and then pick them their baskets curbside later in February.

Those in attendance also learned how the foundation raises money and they heard testimonials from students and staff on how the funds benefit Lincoln-Way Community School District 210.

An appeal for scholarships was also made and that allowed the foundation to exceed its goals, the release said.

“We provided more than $23,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors in 2020 and thanks to community support of the 2021 Gala, we plan to fund $30,000 in scholarships this May,” Kennedy said in the release. “Each high school will receive $10,000 to allocate to 20 graduating seniors, or $500 per scholarship. During these difficult times, we are happy to help offset some of the expenses associated with continuing education.”

Local business partners also shared their thoughts in a video recap of the night “Lincoln-Way Foundation Virtual Gala 2021,” which is posted on the Lincoln-Way Foundation YouTube channel at youtu.be/tkidAmejj2I.

The video also included information on seven upcoming campaigns for 2021, along with a few key dates to save, including a summer fest in July and a 5K in the fall.

Next year’s gala is scheduled for Feb. 12, 2022 at Odyssey Country Club in Tinley Park.

“We hope people will join us in person,” McGlone said in the release.

Proceeds from the event are used for both scholarships and classroom enhancements, which can be viewed at youtu.be/3ZRN21oGV2w.

Since the Lincoln-Way Foundation began in 1994, it has awarded more than $4.5 million to programs in the district.

For more information about theLincoln-Way High School District 201 Foundation for Educational Excellence, visit lw210.org/foundation.