Vendor Bingo returns to the Hamburg Field House raising money for an important cause, the new Perry Elementary playground.
The Perry Elementary PTO is holding the event Sunday, May 4, at the Field House with doors opening at 11:30 a.m., Bingo starts at 1 p.m.
‘This is the last major fundraiser before we will need to make a final selection and pay for the Perry Elementary playground equipment,’ said Andrew Raugh, Hamburg Area School District school director. ‘This fundraiser is key for us to close the gap we have between the cost of the playground equipment and our current playground fund balance.’
The district asked for the Perry PTO to raise $50,000 towards the playground equipment. At this point, a total of $43,552.33 has been raised. Funds have been raised with previous PTO events starting as early as 2012 and continuing through this year as well as donations from various local businesses and organizations.
All proceeds from the event will go toward the playground fund. Numerous vendors will supply merchandise that is awards as Bingo prizes and many of those same vendors will present and display those items for players to see them prior to playing. There will also be 50/50, raffles and a concession stand.
‘This playground is a vital part of our school. Many children are excited to come to school for recess,’ said Raugh. ‘Anything we can do to encourage our students to enjoy coming to school will enhance their opportunities for learning.’
Historically the PTO has paid for the playground equipment making this a not uncommon situation.
‘The Perry Elementary PTO is made up of a fine group of parents and teachers dedicated to serving the children of the Hamburg Area School District. The members donate countless hours to our community. The impact in the lives of the children is quite positive,’ said Raugh.
Other than just a chance to get out and play, the playground offers other important skills and lessons to children.
‘Recess time serves multiple purposes. It allows the children an opportunity to unwind, develop their creativity, practice social skills such as sharing, engage in physical activity and enjoy the outdoors,’ explained Raugh.
Though the amount asked of the PTO to raise was a substantial amount, Raugh remarked that the PTO embraced the challenge. The idea for Vendor Bingo came after Perry Elementary PTO members Tara Green and Kelly Seidel attended another elementary event and saw that it was success and knew that Perry Elementary PTO could also pull off such an event.
Past fundraising efforts included a book fair, KidStuff books, Stanta’s Workshop, spirit wear, candy grams, Vendor Bingo, selling ornaments at the school closing ceremony, walk-a-thon, items sold at the Shoemakersville Children’s Parade and Fair, donation jars located at the school and local businesses, Perry crocks and penny wars.
‘I would encourage anyone willing and able to attend to please do so,’ said Raugh. ‘It has been amazing what our community has been able to do thus far. We are so close to our goal and you could make a difference. This is a great opportunity to help a great cause, win great prizes and enjoy a fun afternoon with family and friends. I hope to see you there!’
Raugh commented that he is very thankful that Hamburg Area School District is blessed with so many generous individuals, friends, businesses, and organizations.
Be sure to stop by the Hamburg Field House on Sunday, May 4 for Vendor Bingo to support the new Perry Elementary playground. To reserve a space contact Kelly Seidel at 610-562-7472 or kellesliz@verizon.net.
Andrew Raugh also contributed to the article.
