CEF phone-a-thon raises $22,000 for local school programs

The 10th annual Camas Educational Foundation Phone-A-Thon was deemed a “major success,” raising thousands of dollars in pledges from Camas School District households.

When it was over, the phone-a-thon raised $22,000, a 22 percent increase over the original goal of $18,000.

“I am amazed at how generous Camas parents and teachers are with their time and money,” said Roopa Pathak, event chair. “That is what is so special about the Camas School District. I am equally impressed with the kids who so enthusiastically did all the phone calls with so much politeness and professionalism.”

The funds raised go to Camas schools for innovative curriculum enhancements, such as the mobile iPod Touch lab. Organizers said one student volunteer told a caller who asked about the grants that his class uses the technology every day and to complete specific projects. These programs would not exist without CEF supporters.

“Kudos to all the volunteers who helped with arranging food for the kids, data entry and everything else,” Pathak said. “Without their help, I couldn’t have done it.”

“It was a great experience and very rewarding to work alongside the student volunteers for CEF,” said Stephanie Leek, phone-a-thon volunteer. “The hard-working students were persistent with lots of enthusiasm to help CEF meet its goals. The smiles on their faces when they secured a donation was definitely the highlight of the night.”

Those that did not receive a call and would like to participate, or for those that would like more information, can browse www.cefcamas.org and click on the “Donate Now” page to participate.

CEF is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization founded in 1997 by parents, administrators, and community members. It raises money year-round through different events in order to grant those funds back to the schools. Its mission is to help fund innovative programs and curriculum enhancements to improve the educational experience for all Camas students.