The 21st edition of the Winner’s Choice Car or Cash Raffle moved to an online platform this year, raising more than $151,880 for its service-oriented IMPACT Chandler Scholarships and school resources.
Chandler, AZ – March 28, 2024 – The Chandler Education Foundation (CEF) is thrilled to announce the outstanding success of its 21st annual Winner's Choice Car or Cash Raffle Fundraiser. This year, the fundraiser shifted to an online platform, resulting in record-breaking participation and donations. The lucky winner, Sue H., purchased just one ticket (#1735) to support her niece, a teacher at Frye Elementary School, and opted for the $20,000 cash prize.
Sue H.'s win marks a momentous achievement, reflecting the culmination of a truly collaborative fundraising effort within the Chandler community. The transition to an online format proved pivotal, enabling CEF to surpass previous fundraising benchmarks. Selling over 7,000 tickets, the event raised an impressive $151,880, a testament to the unwavering support of the community.
“These funds will play a vital role in supporting the IMPACT Chandler scholarships that acknowledge the remarkable achievements of our students,” remarked Frank Narducci, Superintendent for the Chandler Unified School District. “These competitive financial awards recognize outstanding public service coupled with high academic achievement, empowering CUSD students to make a positive difference in our community. Additionally, the funds will provide valuable school resources, fostering educational initiatives and enhancing student development programs.”
Launched on January 9, 2024, with a bonus Early Bird drawing on February 8th, this district-wide event drew support from staff, teachers, the CEF Board, and school Parent Booster groups. The Grand Prize drawing was livestreamed on the raffle website on March 8th with the lucky winner notified the same day. “I still can’t believe I won!” commented Sue H, when notified of her winning ticket. “My niece asked me to get a ticket and I just considered it a donation. I never thought I’d actually win! Thank you so much!”
The Chandler Education Foundation’s Executive Director, Jen Hewitt said, "We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Sue H. on her win and express our deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to the phenomenal success of this year's fundraiser. The overwhelming support underscores the community's commitment to investing in education and providing opportunities for all students in Chandler Unified. With these funds, we can continue to make a significant impact in the lives of our students and educators."
The Chandler Education Foundation extends sincere appreciation to the event sponsors, Big Two Toyota, Toyota Financial Services, Intel, and Cross-Cultural Dynamics, as well as the Chandler Unified staff and raffle participants whose dedication and generosity propelled this year's fundraiser to unprecedented heights.
The IMPACT Chandler scholarships funded through this event will be awarded to recipients, along with the CEF scholarships established and funded through individual donors, at the high school celebrations the last week of April.
