Students from Family Partnership Charter schools were able to enjoy a night of friends, fun, and their teachers serving them ice cream at a fundraising event held at Doc Burnstein’s Ice Cream Lab in Orcutt.
Mark Palmerston, assistant director for Family Partnership Charter; Nancy White, Santa Maria Montessori Instructional Aide; and Mindy Lambert, Orcutt Learning Center Coordinator, were the “celebrity scoopers” at the event on May 17. Complete with Doc Burnstein aprons and hats that said “celebrity scooper,” the three adults served up ice cream to students, families, and other staff members.
According to Lambert, Family Partnership Charter schools host fundraising events throughout the year to help purchase additional materials and supplies. The proceeds will go toward the purchase of art supplies, books, and other learning tools.
For a little over two hours, teachers served to a nonstop crowd. Lambert said a ton of people showed up in support.
“It was the most enjoyable fundraiser I have ever been involved with,” she said.
According to Lambert, Family Partnership was the first organization to host this fundraiser at Doc Burnstein’s in Orcutt. That night, 15 percent of the proceeds were given to the school.
Doc Burnstein’s, which has a flagship store in the village of Arroyo Grande, is heavily involved in the community. Since starting business in 2003, Doc Burnstein’s has donated 10 percent of its profits to local public schools, nonprofits that emphasize child education, and blood drives. They also host a scholarship day, school nights, and field trips.
“The owners of Doc Burnstein’s are very generous,” Lambert said. “We appreciate them and all that they do for students, especially with the budget woes of schools and education these days.”
People interested in organizing a fundraiser through Doc Burnstein’s can send an e-mail to events@DocBurnsteins.com.
Staff Writer Kristina Sewell compiled this week’s Community Corner. Send comments or ideas to the Sun via e-mail at intern@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in May 31 – Jun 7, 2012.