Santa Monica-Malibu Wine Auction Raises $250,000-Plus For Local Public Schools

SANTA MONICA, CA — More than $250,000 were raised at the second annual Santa Monica-Malibu Wine Auction held on April 30, the Santa Monica-Malibu Education Foundation. Proceeds from the event fund programs for all students in the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District.

The event raised a total of 254,906, including $132,500 from corporate sponsors, the group said. Nearly 400 people attended the Wine Auction at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows in Santa Monica. Attendees enjoyed food and wine tastings from 33 local restaurants and beverage purveyors as well as live and silent auctions.

“Our second Wine Auction was even more successful than the inaugural event. It surpassed all expectations,” said David Vukadinovich, president of the SMMEF Board of Directors. “Everything — from the beautiful location to the outstanding food and wine, to the incredible weather — was perfect. We are grateful to everyone who was part of this event to support all students in our district.”

Proceeds from the Wine Auction benefit SMMEF programs such as arts education for the Santa Monica-Malibu School District's 4,900 elementary students, 87 instructional assistants, and enrichment grants for all 16 schools in the district, which many schools use for STEM, arts and student health and wellness programs, according to SMMEF

“We are so thankful for our Corporate Partners and their support of this outstanding event,” said Linda Greenberg, executive director of the Education Foundation. “Our Corporate Partners really understand that outstanding schools are directly connected to a strong and vibrant community.”

Photo courtesy of SMMEF