The Putnam Education Partnership Foundation (PEP) is hosting its second annual pep rally fundraiser Thursday.
PEP Foundation Director Katelyn Steakley said the foundation raises money to support the Putnam County School System. Steakley said the pep rally is the foundation’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Steakley said the pep rally is a great way for the community to learn about the foundation.
“We are really excited to share what we are doing at the PEP Foundation with our community and advocate for the needs that exist within our school system and district and also raise money,” Steakley said. “Raise money for the funds that we have and the programs that we have and the different initiatives that we are working on.”
Steakley said the pep rally also highlights and honors students across the school system. Steakley said funds raised will go towards programs like backpack programs, care closets, performance arts grants, and several other initiatives to help students.
“I know there are so many worthy causes here in Putnam County but when you invest in the PEP Foundation and the kids in our schools you are literally investing in the future,” Steakley said. “And that’s what we believe with all of our hearts.”
Steakley said the several programs the foundation offers have been a big help to students and their families.
“With our backpack program that provides weekly food bags for over 800 students who are enrolled that are experiencing food insecurity,” Steakley said. “Our student needs fund benefits students and families that are going through difficult times and hardships and helps them get over the hurdle so that they can maybe even stay employed and help keep their kid in school and help keep them from having any disruption in their education. Our care closets provide immediate access to basic needs at the school level for school so that kids are not having to call home if there is something that happens during the day.”
Steakley said without the funds raised from fundraisers the PEP Foundation would not be able to offer the programs. Steakley said the pep rally will also honor community leaders and those who have donated to the PEP Foundation.
The PEP Foundation pep rally will start at noon on Thursday at the River Community Church.
