Zeeland - More than $100,000 in sponsorships and raffle donations, 216 guests, and a community of businesses and families committed to supporting Zeeland Public Schools made this year's Zeeland Education Foundation (ZEF) Fowl Play fundraiser an enormous success. All proceeds from this event will be used to fund the teacher and district grants in the spring. Teachers apply for innovative materials for their classrooms that would otherwise not be covered by the curriculum budget.
This annual event took place at Macatawa Legends Golf Course. It brought together supporters of Zeeland Public Schools for an evening celebrating the students, educators, and educational opportunities that make the district a source of community pride.
This year's event secured 36 sponsorships, ranging from individual tickets to $7,000 tables, generating more than $80,000 in sponsorship support. Local and national businesses contributed generously to the evening's raffle, providing everything from baseball tickets and Needoh toys to private sunset cruises. Those donations helped raise an additional $20,000.
With approximately 5,700 students and a wide variety of academic programs, extracurricular activities, and specialized learning experiences, Zeeland Public Schools takes pride in providing an exceptional public education. The continued support of organizations like Zeeland Education Foundation is another way for educators to build on that foundation and pursue additional opportunities for students.
Planning is already underway for Fowl Play 14, scheduled for October 2027. Businesses and individuals interested in sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact Director Lisa Ghiardi at Lghiardi@zps.org. To learn more about ZEF, visit their website.
The Zeeland Education Foundation thanks the sponsors, donors, volunteers, and guests whose support made this year's event possible.