CEF to ‘Celebrate Excellence’ with 2017 auction

During the past 19 years, the Camas Educational Foundation has given more than $1 million to Camas school’s educational programs.

The grant money has gone to fund activities such as arts education, robotics, and STEM programs at elementary, middle and high school levels.

During the 2015-16 school year, CEF awarded 18 grants for a total of $74,500 to local schools.

This year, auction chairwoman? Meredith Orlando is hoping to continue that tradition with the annual CEF auction and dinner on Saturday, March 18 at the Portland Airport Embassy Suites. This year’s theme is “Celebrating Excellence.” The event is semi-formal and includes both silent and live auctions.

“Grants go to enriching and extending educational programs that impact each child in the Camas School District,” she said. “Our goal this year is $100,000. We want to meet or increase our financial gift each year.”

In addition to silent and live auctions, the event will include a four-course dinner. Tickets are $75 per person.

Some of the auction items include trips, excursions, wine, golf and entertainment packages.

New this year are the “Living the Vision” awards.

“These are awarded to educators, community members, organizations or businesses that help support the CEF mission,” Orlando said. “Three awards will be presented at the event to deserving community members.”

The auction committee is still seeking donations including use of vacation homes, wine, gift cards and tickets to events. Donations are tax-deductible.

To purchase tickets, visit www.cefcamas.org or call 335-3000.

Contact Alison Benjamin at alisonbenjamin123@gmail.com to donate or volunteer at the event.