They've got school spirit--and the fervor to raise funds

A couple of community groups are working hard to help make up their school districts' projected budget shortfalls by using WCI component funds.

The 549 Family Foundation launched its "More Than Nothing" campaign in support of the District 549 Perham-Dent School system. It encourages local families, businesses and organizations and 549 alumni to make a voluntary donation to the school district.  Take a look at the foundation's many fundraising ideas.

Pelican Rapids school alumni are banding together to create a new component fund for their own fundraising campaign. The alums are contacting all graduates from the past 50 years to ask for their support. For more information about donating to the Pelican Rapids School Fund, contact Kim at WCI at 800 735-2239, or kim@wciforg.  

Legacy benefits Perham arts patrons

Hazel Schuler was a lifelong resident of Perham who loved music and drama. Hazel passed away last winter, but she earmarked a $32,000 gift in her estate for the 549 Family Foundation to make attending an arts program at the local high school a much more pleasurable experience.

The 549 Family Foundation is a component fund administered by WCI that benefits School District 549 in Perham.

Hazel specified she wanted her gift to go toward a new entrance to the PHS auditorium, where most of the city's concerts and plays are held. Right now, lines extend out the building, making it extremely unpleasant for arts patrons during inclement weather.

Construction estimates indicate that Hazel's gift will provide 35 percent of the money to complete the project. People interested in helping or contributing are invited to attend a steering committee meeting at 7 p.m., Sept. 24 at the Area Learning Center, 520 1st Ave. S. Or contact the 549 Family Foundation at 218-347-0549, or http://www.549family.com/.

Image courtesy of Hammers Construction.