(Posted Aug. 16, 2017)
By Sandi Latimer, Staff Writer
It’s official. Fundraising efforts are under way for installation of artificial turf at Jonathan Alder High School’s football field.
On Aug. 14, the school board approved a resolution to support and acknowledge the campaign for a privately funded artificial turf field. The campaign will run through Dec. 31, 2018. The goal is $550,000. Should that goal not be reached, all donations will be returned to the donors.
Approval came after Rayce Robinson, a Jonathan Alder graduate and member of the Artificial Turf Committee, explained the campaign.
The field would benefit students in the growing school district, Robinson said, as well as allow the district to host more tournaments and other competitions, thereby generating revenue.
The campaign, Robinson said, is divided into five levels of giving: Jonathan Alder Partner for contributions of $100,000; Pioneer Partner for $50,000; JA Gold Sponsorship at $25,000; JA Silver Sponsorship at $10,000; and JA Bronze Sponsorship at $5,000.
Donors get recognition at each level:
- JA Partner: On-field advertisement for the life of the turf, signage on the scoreboard for five years, a full-page advertisement in the fall program for five years, and recognition of donation on the field house.
- Pioneer Partner: Signage on the scoreboard for five years, half-page advertisement in the fall program, and recognition on donation on the field house.
- JA Gold Sponsorship: Fence signage at the opening gate for two years, quarter-page advertisement in the fall program for two years, and recognition of donation on the field house.
- JA Silver Sponsorship: Fence signage at the opening gate for one year, name recognition in the fall program for two years, and recognition of donation on the field house.
- JA Bronze Sponsorship: Name recognition in the fall program for two years and recognition of donation on the field house.
The board resolution also stated, and Robinson backed it up, that no district funds would be used in the project.
Construction will not start until all $550,000 is raised. All funds will be held in a separate account managed by the athletic boosters.
So far, the committee has raised $140,000.
To learn more about the project or how to donate, go to www.AlderFieldTurf.com or facebook.com/AlderFieldTurf/, email alderfieldeturf@gmail.com or call (614) 504-3245.
