Millbrook Educational Foundation Celebrates over $1,100,000 in Giving at the 13th Annual Taste of Millbrook
The Millbrook Educational Foundation will celebrate over $1,000,000 in giving at its premier fundraiser, the Taste of Millbrook at Millbrook Vineyards and Winery from 6pm-9pm on June 3, 2017 with expanded food showcases and an expanded venue.
Fifteen years ago, as the Millbrook community began discussions about building a new high school, a group of district parents, community members, and administrators established the Millbrook Educational Foundation as a way to provide a financial base for enhancing the education of Millbrook students. The Millbrook Educational Foundation seeks and gives grants for the enhancement of arts, educational enrichment, and athletic programs that would not normally be available through the school budget and state funding. Funds are generated through an annual appeal, commemorative brick sales, the Taste of Millbrook, and the generosity of area foundations and individuals.
“Over the last fifteen years, the Millbrook Educational Foundation has raised more than $1,100,000 dollars for the district. In 2014 we established an endowment fund thanks to a very successful fund drive and the support of the community,” said Janelle Styles, MEF Trustee and PR Chair for the group. “The funds MEF raises have allowed students to experience the power of Shakespeare and world dance, opened the window to the broader world through the purchase of Smartboards and technology, and created new opportunities for students to grow as scholars, artists, and athletes.”said past MEF chair Dr. Diane Jackson Schnoor. This year, through Arts-in-Residency funds from MEF, the MCSD is hosting visiting authors including NYT best-selling authors Jennifer Donnelly, Michelle Knudsen and Wendy Mass. Also featured will be Genna Nixon.
The Millbrook Educational Foundation continues to fund important projects such as Colonial Days, new Apple Computer Labs, SmartBoards in every classroom, Project Lead the Way materials, musical instruments, Vanaver Caravan, sports equipment, an arts-in-residency program, and Bright Ideas grants for teachers and clubs.
One of the biggest fundraisers for MEF is the Taste of Millbrook, a fabulous celebration of the Millbrook Central School District and the work of the foundation. The event features wines from Millbrook Vineyard paired with a lovely spread of foods donated by area restaurants and caterers. Beer and locally produced spirits are also showcased. The participating restaurants present the best of their offerings through restaurant showcases and plates of appetizers served by National Honor Society students. The celebrated Millbrook High School Jazz Band will provide musical entertainment. The MHS Madrigal Singers will provide choral entertainment. A silent auction offers trips, sports and entertainment tickets, spa services, and home improvement items, with something to suit everyone’s tastes and budget. This enchanted evening under a beautiful tent at Millbrook Vineyards completely sells out each year. Get your tickets early!
Tickets for Taste of Millbrook are $85 of which $55 is tax deductible ($100 day of event/at the door) and available from trustees, at area businesses and online with a link from the MEF Foundation site. For more information on the Taste of Millbrook, where to buy tickets, how to become a wine sponsor, present as a restaurant showcase, or advertise in the program, please visit http://www.tasteofmillbrook.com . If you cannot attend but would like to make a donation or learn more about the Millbrook Educational Foundation then please visit http://www.millbrookeducationalfoundation.org .
