Welcome Fundraiser

Michigan-based Above and Beyond Children’s Foundation (ABCF) will host its first annual welcome fundraiser on Sept. 25 from 7-9 p.m. at . Hosted by Channel 955 on-air personality Stick, the fundraiser is honoring University Preparatory Academy in Detroit to help benefit their efforts in adding extracurricular programs as an option for their students.
 
The ABCF will feature a baseball-themed silent auction consisting of more than 30 items including but not limited to: authentic jerseys, bats, baseballs, hats, cards and other gear donated and signed by Detroit Tigers players. Players attending the fundraiser include: Austin Jackson, Brennan Boesch, Ryan Perry, Rick Porcello, Phil Coke, Daniel Schlereth, Duane Below and Jacob Turner (list of attending players subject to change without notice).
 
A minimum $15 donation per person will be required at the door or in advance for participants to enjoy the benefits of the evening. Aside from the silent auction, Chen Chow is featuring a $5 menu for fundraiser participants and the ABCF will conduct a give-away with fantastic prizes donated by local vendors. The proceeds will help further University Prep’s plans to enhance extracurricular and after-school programming with the addition of activities such as an academic games team, a chess team, a FIRST® Robotics team, dance club and other activities that help prepare students for the settings they will encounter in college.
 
Founded in 2011 by friends Vanessa Palestino and Megan Johnson, the ABCF aims to raise funds for extracurricular and after-school programs for children of all ages. Studies show that kids with high levels of after-school and extracurricular involvement are more likely to get higher grades; have higher average standardized test scores, educational attainment and self-concepts; and attend school more regularly.
 
“We want to give kids nationwide the opportunities our founders had by supporting the schools and organizations within their communities,” said Palestino. “Extra curricular activities and after school programs generate so much positivity for kids. It is a true passion and belief of everyone involved in our organization.”
 
The first annual Welcome Fundraiser is open to the public. For additional information or to purchase entry tickets in advance, email info@theabcf.org or call 612.483.7810.