Blazing New Trails benefit auction set for Aug. 21;
Funds leadership, economic development, convention/tourism
OLATHE, Kan. — Registration is open for Blazing New Trails, a benefit auction supporting the Olathe Chamber of Commerce Foundation, 6 p.m., Friday, Aug. 21 at the Ball Conference Center in Olathe (21350 West 153rd Street).
This is the 12th year of the event, hosted by the Olathe Chamber of Commerce and Garmin International. Blazing New Trails is a contemporary, casual event featuring hors d’oeuvres and drinks, networking and a silent and live auction. Visit here to register for the event. Supporting sponsors include Sysco and Farmers Insurance Group.
“This is truly a fun event that supports a great cause,” Olathe Chamber of Commerce CEO Tim McKee says. “I believe the reason people enjoy Blazing New Trails is they know they are supporting something that will directly benefit our community. This has always been a popular event and I expect the same this year.”
The Olathe Chamber Foundation Fund was established in 2003 in recognition of the need for increased private partnerships to fund leadership, economic development, and convention/tourism programs. This year, the Foundation funded the participation of three adults and six high school students in Leadership Olathe. It also helped the Olathe School District conduct its “Soft Skills Seminar,” a day-long session that is a component of its 21st Century curriculum. Since the Foundation’s inception, nearly $250,000 has been distributed to a variety of organizations and individuals.
“The foundation actually has been second to none,” Dr. Alison Banikowski, Deputy Superintendent of Olathe Public Schools says. “We could not do it (offer various programs) without their support.”
For more about the Olathe Chamber Foundation Fund and the programs it supports, access this video.
“Olathe’s growth and development is enhanced by programs, such as the ones funded by the Olathe Chamber Foundation, that advance our economic well-being and quality of life,” McKee says. “We are appreciative of those businesses, organizations and individuals that support the foundation because without them we could not sponsor those vital programs. They are to be applauded because they are making an investment in our people and our community.”
About the Olathe Chamber of Commerce
It was the first chamber in the state to receive Five-Star Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce – a designation obtained by only 1 percent of the nation’s chambers. Its vision is to be the voice of business that advances the economic well-being and quality of life in Olathe. Its mission is to foster a progressive community through inspired leadership, balanced economic growth, highest educational opportunities and responsive government to ensure a quality family business environment.
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