ROCK SPRINGS – Kari’s Access Awards, part of the Sweetwater One Public School Foundation, wrapped up their 2nd annual Wine and Beer Tasting Event, Saturday the 17th of January. The event, held again at the Holiday Inn ballroom, featured several local beverage distributors, and others from across the state, pouring over 100 wine and beers. Several food vendors also showcased their culinary work to the over 300 people who attended. Live entertainment was provided by students Mikayla and Grace Peterson during the first half of the event. Nearly $12,000 was raised during the evening’s event to help support Kari’s Access Award initiatives that provide qualified students the resources needed to participate in outside activities that provide additional growth opportunities in academics or enhances skills that help keep them in school.
“Our first year was such a success that we knew we had to keep this event going”, Reed Clevenger, Executive Director of the Foundation said. “The support of the vendors and distributors once again showed their commitment to supporting students of District #1 and especially to Kari’s Access Awards and the Sweetwater One Foundation.” The Kari’s Access Program was set up to preserve the memory and the legacy of Kari Fusselman. “It’s a way to continue her loving and giving spirit, and allows us to provide resources to those students who need it to stay engaged and stay in school”, Larry Fusselman, father to Kari and who started the awards fund on her behalf, said. “We are fortunate to be able to add this event on the heels of our summer BBQ event held each August. The Kari’s Access committee, the Foundation, and our sponsors have done a wonderful job of promoting and supporting this program that means so much to me. I cannot thank everyone enough for their dedication.”
Kari’s Access Awards endowment was set up in 2006 and has helped hundreds of students since its inception. It is part of the needs based initiatives within the Sweetwater One Public School Foundation. Awards go through an application process that is reviewed by a committee and approved by the Foundation board. Awards are based on the application information, how much the student or parent(s) can contribute, and if the request is something that enhances an academic or physical skill or talent that will help further engage the student and keep them in school.
Teachers, counselors, and/or parents are encouraged to make an application for students who are not able to access opportunities because financial needs create a barrier, and for those students who have demonstrated a special ability, talent, or achievement, and would benefit from an enrichment opportunity to develop those talents and stay in school. Applications can be picked up at the Sweetwater One Foundation office located in the Central Administration Building at 3550 Foothill Blvd, Rock Springs.
The Sweetwater One Foundation’s mission is to provide additional support and recognition to students, teachers, and educational programs that deliver valuable enhancement and enrichment opportunities. Besides Kari’s Access Awards, the Foundation programs include Stepping Stone Scholarships, multiple Needs Based initiatives, Innovative and SEED Grants, and our back to school initiatives.
–From a press release
