Fundraising Update

Living in California has taught me two things - the weather is predictable and so is the lack of state funding for Education. We are fortunate we live in a community that values education and steps up to fill the gap with their donations of time and money.

Our Spring Campaign has been very successful thus far - raising just over $200,000 from 317 donors (double last year’s spring donations) - but we’re still a long way from our parent goal of $700,000 for the year.

To get there, we need everyone to give what they can - last year only 50% of our school families donated. And we need you to give sooner rather than later in the fall. Why? Click here to read more about why this year, in the midst of the state budget crisis, it’s more important than ever.

On behalf of WCEF, thank you for your support! Have a happy and safe summer.

Glynnis Cowdery, WCEF President
gcowdery@wcefk12.org

Physical Education at the Elementary Schools

In a culture where video games and computers compete with exercise... where unhealthy food choices rival nutritious meals... comes the startling reality that our children may be the first generation that doesn’t outlive their parents.

Childhood obesity, diabetes and other health problems have prompted schools across the country to address this national crisis. In the Walnut Creek School District, the race is on to get kids motivated and moving at an early age. "Our goal is to instill a lifelong love of movement," says Susan Bomba, district liaison for PE at the elementary level, "where every student knows what they must do to live a healthy lifestyle, and develops the motivation and desire to do just that." Click here to read how WCEF is partnering with the school district to get kids on the road to long, healthy lives.

WCEF Volunteers

It takes 1,000s of hours to raise the dollars needed to support the vital programs WCEF provided to the Walnut Creek School District and Las Lomas. Click here to see our list of volunteers and our new all-volunteer Executive Committee that begins its term July 1st. Next time you pass one of them on the street, thank them for their passion and effort towards providing the quality education our children deserve.

Welcome to Our New Executive Director

Lisa Heinrich joined WCEF as the Executive Director in May. Lisa brings over 20 years of experience in marketing, public relations and fundraising, working both in for-profit and non-profit sectors throughout her career.

"We believe that Lisa will be an excellent steward of the Foundation’s existing programs, while helping us launch future capital campaigns," said WCEF President Glynnis Cowdery. "Her experience, leadership and passion for our schools will help take WCEF to the next level," added Cowdery

Volunteers Wanted!!!

Here’s your chance to get involved in your children’s education in a new and rewarding way, working with other parents, administrators, business people and community members to safeguard the high quality of our schools.

Contact lheinrich@wcefk12.org for more information on these and other volunteer opportunities.

Las Lomas Student Receives
Michael W. De Sa Memorial Scholarship

The second annual Michael W. De Sa Memorial Scholarship, in the amount of $2,000 was awarded on May 28th by Mike De Sa’s daughter, Caitlin to Las Lomas High School Senior, Jessica Goodman.

Goodman was chosen among 12 Las Lomas Seniors who applied for the scholarship, named after the Walnut Creek School District Superintendent who passed away in 2006. Jessica’s achievements exemplified the scholarship criterion, which seeks a well-rounded graduate of the Walnut Creek schools (attending K-12) who has nurtured life’s passions both in school and outside the confines of academia, through service in the community and other pursuits. Read more about Jessica and the De Sa Scholarship.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Edwards Luggage

Edwards Luggage, located in Broadway Plaza, is going "green" for WCEF!

When shopping for travel or business gear, just say NO to plastic bags when making a purchase and $.25 goes to WCEF for every plastic bag a customer refuses. Edwards Luggage "Go Green Program" runs for the next 12 months and they've pledged $1,000.00 now with additional proceeds to come.

The Counter - Walnut Creek’s Newest "Upscale" Burger Joint!

Gather friends and family to support WCEF and other community charities by attending a pre-opening party for lunch or dinner at The Counter–Custom Built Burgers in Walnut Creek. The Counter is hosting a fundraiser Saturday, June 21st with all proceeds from food/beverage at menu prices benefiting WCEF, John Muir Health Foundation, Jr. League of East Bay and Shriners Hospitals for Children, Northern California. Reservations required. Call 925.935.3795. The Counter is located at the new Mercer Condominiums at 1699 N. California Blvd.

It’s a Win-Win at Sports Basement

Shop at Sports Basement between now and June 30th and receive 10% off your purchase. Sports Basement will also donate 10% to WCEF. Get your coupon here

Business Partner Program

Business owners, realtors and corporations know that partnering with a great school district and reaching thousands of families with their message, product or service is powerful and boosts economic success.

This year, WCEF is launching its Business Partner Program. We need financial support through our business, realtor and corporate communities to save the quality academic and enrichment programs and services that will be cut due to the state education budget crisis.

WCEF's Business Partner Program is an outstanding way to increase exposure for businesses. With various funding levels of participation, businesses and corporations will receive ample recognition and benefits for their donation. For more information or to help, contact WCEF executive director, Lisa Heinrich at 925.708.6090 or visit the WCEF web site.

WCEF • P.O. Box 186 • Walnut Creek, CA 94597