For 37 years, the Cache Education Foundation has been raising essential funds that improve the quality of education for students in Cache County School District. This year’s Driving for Education Golf Tournament, a beloved tradition, brought in tens of thousands of dollars that will be used to fund grants for CCSD classrooms.
Standing in front of school administrators and participating business owners, Joan Mahoney celebrated the humble origins of the tournament. “21 years ago, I got asked to go to lunch by a friend. I thought it was just lunch, but a bunch of people showed up and suddenly I was planning a golf tournament. It was meant to be a three-year term for me, but I’ve been around for 21 years. Anyone want to go to lunch tomorrow?”
Warm laughter followed his question. Teri Lewis, CEF President, was radiant with excitement. “The start of school is the best time of year,” she said. “I consider this golf tournament the kick-off. Once we have the golf tournament, it’s like, ‘okay, we’re back in the groove.’”
Lewis has championed CEF for 17 years and is fiercely proud of its growth. Since its inception, the foundation has channeled over $8 million to fund classroom grants, technology, art, scholarships, teacher recognition awards, and, most recently, the district’s Unified Sports program.
“The money we give out has a huge impact,” she said. “100% of the funds that we raise go into the classrooms of Cache County School District.”
The golf tournament is primarily used to fund Tools for Schools Grants, which allow teachers up to $300 towards the purchase of non-consumable classroom items. CEF also sponsors the annual Christmas Tree Jubilee right before Thanksgiving to fund Models for Excellence technology grants.
“We love to fund whatever’s next,” Lewis said, “the latest and greatest in classroom technology!”
The Foundation’s work would not be possible without the generous support of local businesses and individuals. DWA Construction, the golf tournament’s primary sponsor, said that giving back is a rewarding experience. “This great opportunity is all about giving back to our students and teachers.”
“I love that as a school district, we continue to evolve,” Lewis said. “When we work together, we can accomplish whatever we need to do. Our mission is to put the right resources in the right places at the right time.”
Anyone wishing to donate or get involved with the Cache Education Foundation can visit their website at https://www.cefut.org/ or email Teri Lewis at cef@netwasatch.com.
