News Release May 13, 2003

NEWS RELEASE:

From: The Okemos Education Foundation For immediate release

Contact: Mark Bashore, 517-394-3999 x 110
Date: May 13, 2003

"OKEMOS CARES" ORGANIZERS MOUNT MAIL CAMPAIGN

Volunteers raising money for Okemos schools have a full head of steam as the initiative approaches the end of its first phase later this month. The latest figures show a total of $135,000 donated or pledged. "Okemos Cares" organizers busied themselves this week with a direct-mail campaign they hope will reach more contributors and push totals higher still.

"It turns out our confidence was justified," said Jack Hettiger, Chairman of the Okemos Education Foundation, the group administering the campaign. "Not only have families with school-age kids responded, but empty nesters, alumni and businesses as well. The entire school community in Okemos has really rallied together and got behind our cause in recent weeks." The head of the 19-year educational organization also praised the campaign's numerous volunteers, coordinators and fellow OEF trustees as they prepared a mail appeal that will blanket the district this week.

Organizers say the final mail appeal will complete the work begun by volunteers who have spent weeks soliciting families, friends and associates.

Meanwhile, foundation volunteers continue to plan and discuss several fundraising events benefiting the cause, along with initiatives from local businesses and individuals.

"A one-day event at Schuler Books raised over $2,000, plus Pacesetter Mortgage and Briarwood Realty both have incentives for their customers who mention "Okemos Cares". We're planning an event with Rio Bravo and our ongoing partnership with Pres Kool Chevrolet continues to be quite beneficial." The Grand River Avenue car dealer's "supporting education" initiative returns $25 of every new or used car purchase to the school of each customer's choice. Based on 2002 sales figures, it could yield up to $60,000 this calendar year, primarily to the Okemos, Haslett and Williamston Districts.

OEF trustees say that offering contributors the chance to donate to specific areas targeted for cuts was central to its appeal. Figures revealed last week show about $23,000 earmarked for performing and visual arts programs. Over $16,000 will be spent on academic enrichment programs and an unrestricted fund contains about $30,000. The remainder is divided among 9 other areas, including athletics, science & math and clubs.

In March, school officials for the 4,200-student district announced a comprehensive series of cost-cutting measures, which included the closing of one elementary school. The district needs to eliminate $2.5 million in programs and personnel from its operating budget for the 2003/2004 school year.

The Okemos school board and administrators will figure money raised by the "Okemos Cares" campaign into its final plans for the next school year. More details are expected at a June meeting of the Okemos school board. Hettiger says, "Money to make up for 2003/2004 cuts needs to be received by June 1". Contributions made after that date will be assigned to the 2004/2005 school year. Of the $135,000 raised so far, over $30,000 has already been targeted by donors for that school year.

More details on OEF's "Okemos Cares" campaign are available from any Okemos school principal.