Through contributions from over 330 individuals and organizations, the Arcadia Public Library Foundation has raised the money to fund all items on the original "wish list."
Tom Romano, president of the Arcadia Educational Foundation, presented the Arcadia Board of Education with a $20,000 check. The money was the result of a "telethon" in which residents were asked to contribute to the foundation in support of Arcadia schools.
To help reach its goal of raising $1.2 million to provide interior details for the new Arcadia Public Library, the Library Foundation is sponsoring a Day at the Races during the Oak Tree Meet at Santa Anita Park.
The Arcadia Educational Foundation raised about $90,000 for Arcadia schools over the last year by selling more than $1.4 million in "scrip" or vouchers for groceries.
The foundation plans to raise $75,000 this year ($30,000 more than last year) with a new strategy that entails direct pleas for contribution from families of Arcadia school students as well as from businesses in the community.
Since beginning its scrip program citywide in September, the Arcadia Educational Foundation is now selling (indirectly) about $25,000 worth of groceries a week and thereby raising $1500 weekly for the Arcadia School District.
The Arcadia Educational Foundation, a non-profit public benefit corporation, is now in the process of incorporating. The purpose of the organization is to provide financial support to the school district. Several other cities in the area have formed similar organizations.
The Board of Education has provided the Arcadia Educational Foundation with a list of priorities that amount to $400,000. The foundation is attempting to raise funds for these items. Top two priorities included adding Junior High teachers and maintenance.
Charles E. Gilb, president of Arcadia Educational Foundation announced opening of office for the Foundation at 30 E. Santa Clara St. Lyle Cunningham as office manager.
The Arcadia Educational Foundation presented $35,000 to the Board of Education. Their efforts to solicit community support through various fundraisers is ongoing.