In a record-breaking weekend, the Simon Youth Foundation surpasses its fundraising goal bringing in more than $570,000 and welcoming 400 guests.
In a display of community spirit, the Simon Youth Foundation (SYF) announced a record-breaking weekend with their summer fundraising events. The events raised over $570,000, directly benefiting students locally, regionally, and nationally, and solidified SYF’s mission to provide educational opportunities for all.
SYF supports 33 Simon Youth Academies across 12 states, providing alternative education settings tailored to students who face challenges in traditional educational settings, such as students who have fallen behind for many reasons or require a more personalized approach. These academies are designed to help students who are at risk of dropping out to stay on track and achieve their high school diplomas. Additionally, the foundation awards an average of $1 million in scholarships annually, helping numerous students overcome financial barriers to higher education.
“We are humbled by the incredible support we received during this year’s summer events,” said Andrea Neely, President, and CEO of SYF. “The dedication of our communities and the enthusiasm of participants were instrumental in surpassing our goals. Every dollar raised will make a real difference, empowering students in our academies to graduate and pursue their dreams.”
The fundraising events began on July 19th at the scenic Pebble Brook Golf Club. A record-setting 241 golfers gathered for a day of friendly competition, creating connections, and demonstrating their unwavering commitment to education. The excitement carried over to Saturday, July 20th, at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS). Guests were treated to NASCAR qualifications featuring both rising stars and seasoned veterans, creating an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.
Over 400 attendees contributed to this significant achievement, strengthening SYF’s mission of ensuring educational opportunities for all youth, regardless of personal circumstances. The generous support lead by our national and weekend sponsors, including IU Health, Citizens Energy Group, PNC Bank, The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company, and Benchmark Contract Furniture, played a critical role in exceeding fundraising targets.
The funds raised will support SYF’s academies, scholarships, and capacity-building grants for teachers. This ensures that students not only complete their high school education but are also prepared for the next steps in their academic and professional journeys.
The community’s overwhelming response is a testimony to the role SYF plays in the lives of young people. By providing alternative education opportunities, SYF helps students who might otherwise fall through the cracks to not only complete their education but to thrive. The success stories of SYF graduates serve as powerful reminders of the foundation’s impact.
In addition to the immediate benefits for students, the funds raised will also enhance SYF’s capacity to support teachers through Capacity-Building Grants. These grants enable educators to access the resources and training they need to effectively support their students, creating a more responsive educational environment.
The outcome of the summer events illustrates the transformative power of community collaboration. It underscores the vital role that organizations like SYF play in shaping a brighter future for students.
