We’re keeping you ConnectED – May 2023 Newsletter

Teacher Appreciation Week

Great teachers can transform a student’s day, shape a child’s life and impact the future of our community. Educators are foundational to our students’ academic and personal success. That’s why every day, we are so grateful for the nearly 14,000 instructional staff in Hillsborough County Public Schools and are excited to celebrate their impactful work during Teacher Appreciation Week.

Teachers can register to win gift cards or a $500 classroom enrichment grant on our Facebook page!

Plus, we appreciate the 28 business partners in our community who are offering school staff amazing deals and discounts throughout the week to celebrate.

Reeling in Support for Students at the 2023 Larry Wilder Memorial Fishing Tournament

It was great to be back on the water this year for the 2023 Larry Wilder Memorial Fishing Tournament benefitting HEF!

We had 38 teams head out from Westshore Yacht Club for a memorable day fishing and soaking up the Florida sunshine. Thanks to our generous sponsors, we raised $119,500 in sponsorships to help support students and teachers in Hillsborough County.

We would like to give special recognition to the Wilder Architecture team for their continued partnership in organizing this widely anticipated event. Plus, congratulations to this year’s Alex Anston Hooked on Education Memorial Scholarship recipient, Hillsborough High Senior Hiral Shukla, and our tournament winners!

Read more in our May e-Newsletter.

May e-Newsletter
May e-newsletter

Mayoral Ball Benefits HEF’s Mentoring Program and Students

Every four years, the Economic Club of Tampa hosts the Mayoral Inaugural Ball, celebrating Tampa’s recently-elected Mayor. Friday night, we honored the City’s 59th Mayor, Jane Castor, who was re-elected to another term. Proceeds raised from the black-tie event benefit HEF’s Take Stock in Children mentoring program and the students we serve.

As part of the gala, mentor Dave Amis and his mentee, Nate, a Sickles High School junior, reflected on how the program has impacted their lives. They also shared their story on FOX 13’s What’s Right with Tampa Bay.

The $100K in proceeds from this Mayoral Ball will provide an additional 20 students with a 2-year college scholarship to support their dreams of continuing their education after graduation.

Check out more memorable moments from the event in our May e-Newsletter.