(Family Access Network Annual Luncheon at Ensworth Elementary School | Photo courtesy of Family Access Network)
The Family Access Network (FAN) Foundation held their 13th annual luncheon fundraiser in Bend on April 12 at Ensworth Elementary School. The event, which hosted 240 guests, raised nearly $100,000 for FAN through sponsorships, individual donations and a donor match. Graciously provided by the ARIA Foundation, this match encouraged guests to join the “FAN Club” with automatic monthly donations. As a result, the number of monthly donors to FAN doubled for the second year in a row. FAN is honored to announce that the luncheon title sponsor, Hoodoo Ski Area, is committing to their $10,000 sponsorship for the next five years. Every luncheon sponsorship plays an essential role in making this event possible. The funds raised provide access to FAN services for children and families throughout Deschutes and Crook Counties.
“FAN advocates are opening doors to hope, help and new possibilities,” said Alisa Betz, vice-chair of the FAN Foundation Board. “By having these advocates as a part of local schools, they are easily accessible to families and are able to connect students with the services they need to keep them in school where they can benefit from the advantages of a good education. The annual FAN luncheon is so impactful to donors because they hear first-hand accounts from clients and advocates about how FAN and its 100+ community partners are changing lives. On behalf of the FAN luncheon committee, we’d like to thank all of the incredible donors, sponsors, event table captains, and volunteers for their generosity and support of our local children and families.”
Unique to Central Oregon, FAN began in 1993 and currently employs 24 advocates in 55 public school and early childhood sites in Deschutes and Crook Counties. FAN provides families with one dedicated individual working to remove roadblocks and ensure that children have their basic needs met, allowing them to stay in school and be ready and able to learn. FAN offers assistance, possibility, and hope to Central Oregon families in need by connecting them with crucial resources that will help children flourish in school and in life.
