2024 marks the 20th year of Drive for Schools! And in its 20th year, we expect to see the program’s all-time total reach, or possibly exceed, $10 million raised for Santa Cruz County schools. We’re excited to invite all schools in Santa Cruz County to participate this year.

All elementary, middle, and high schools in Santa Cruz County are invited to participate in Drive for Schools at absolutely NO COST. Schools don’t need to collect prizes or print tickets. We take care of that for you. Students and their families simply sell $5 tickets, and the school keeps every single dollar raised. Tickets are turned in to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which holds a suspenseful and fun drawing at the conclusion of the fundraiser in October. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk contributes a grand prize of $25,000 and five other $1,000 prizes. Local businesses also pitch in, providing almost 100 additional prizes to entice ticket buyers.

Last year almost 80 local schools participated in this unique fundraising drive, raising a grand total of $754,709 during just over five weeks of ticket sales in the fall of 2023. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which sponsors this fundraiser with the generous support of Mission Printers and other local businesses, does not collect any money. Money raised by participating schools stays with the schools to help fund much needed arts, sports, and other vital programs. Due to the volunteer spirit of this event, participating schools may not mandate the purchase of Drive for Schools tickets in association with the collection of tuition or fees.

Any school that wishes to participate must email Marcy Brenkwitz at [email protected] no later than August 30 with the school name, principal’s name, and fundraising coordinator’s name, email address and cell phone number. Schools that sign up will be provided instructions about how to obtain tickets on Tuesday, September 10 and Wednesday, September 11. Selling can start immediately and continue until Sunday, October 20. The drawing will be held at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk on Sunday, October 27, 2024.

As you plan for the ‘24-‘25 school year, we hope your school will participate in the 2024 DRIVE FOR SCHOOLS!

Sincerely,