For the fourth consecutive year, Westerlay Orchids will host a fundraiser to benefit the Carpinteria Education Foundation Inc. (CEF). The family-owned business pledges 100% of retail shop proceeds from Oct. 22-29 in support of the local nonprofit.
Last year with this fundraising event, Westerlay raised $35,619 for CEF, and hopes to match that this year.
Toine Overgaag, owner/president of Westerlay Orchids, and a second-generation flower cultivator, believes its the company’s responsibility to the community.
“Ever since my parents immigrated to Carpinteria from the Netherlands in 1978, our family has enjoyed giving back to this beloved area,” he said. “We are always looking for ways to make a positive impact and show our appreciation for this community that has been so good to us.
“Sharing our profits with CEF has been a huge success the last three years, and we are proud to help the local schools and students and positively impact their lives.”
Money raised during the week-long benefit will help fund STEAM-related programs resources for Carpinteria Union School District (CUSD) families in need through the CEF.
For more than 25 years, CEF has been dedicated to the academic success of Carpinteria and Summerland students. The nonprofit partners with local schools to provide scholarship opportunities and other essential resources to the city’s youth.
CEF also offers students skill-building in science and technology, language arts, humanities, culinary arts, and agriculture.