School District Contributions To Haiti Acknowledged By The Red Cross

The Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter of the American Red Cross hosted a luncheon on March 26, 2010 at its local headquarters in West Palm Beach to recognize major gift donors who help the local organization raise nearly $1 million for the Haiti January’s earthquake disaster.   Some of Palm Beach’s most philanthropic youth, adults, companies and organizations gathered to celebrate their collective achievements.

At the luncheon, The School District of Palm Beach County was recognized for its monetary contributions to the support of the Haiti relief effort. A check for $56,827.54 was presented on behalf of district schools, departments and staff to the American Red Cross.

“Since the earthquake struck on January 12, district schools, departments and staff have rallied together to organize numerous projects and activities to collect critically needed resources for the Haiti disaster,” said District Business Partnership Coordinator Jimmy Peterkin.

While presenting the check, Bito David, Bilingual Public Affairs Specialist for The School District of Palm Beach County, gave a compelling speech to the group. David, who was born in Haiti, said “Everyone is expressing thanks on behalf of the Red Cross. I want to say thank you on behalf of Haiti, and tell you how proud I am to be standing here amongst people who have made such a difference.” Bito added, “We need all the help we can get.” 

For more information, please contact Jimmy Peterkin at (561) 434-7323or email peterkinj@palmbeach.k12.fl.us

Michael Lampert, Chairman of the Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter of the American Red Cross - Bito David, Public Affairs Specialist of The School District of Palm Beach County -  Larry Casey, CEO of the Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter of the American Red Cross - Jimmy Peterkin, Business Partnerships Coordinator at The School District of Palm Beach County.