PRIDE Scholarship History
In 2001 the Patterson Joint Unified School District ran a successful bond election in order to build Creekside Middle School. The bond committee had just over $11,000 remaining in the campaign account after the election and they decided to invest this money in a scholarship program. The bond committee, along with other members of the community, set in motion the PRIDE Scholarship Program. By March 2002, the vision for PRIDE was well on its way with Articles of Incorporation, a logo and certified bylaws. In July, a mailing was sent out to the community announcing the new organization. Donations, sponsorships and memorial contributions started to come in. PRIDE was officially established as a nonprofit corporation in September 2002. A basket auction fundraiser led by Dr. La Torre, Dave Santos and Chris Bingham soon followed. By December 2002 the account balance had grown to $19,400. The board then focused on the application process and the format of how scholarships were to be awarded. TOSCA, Newman's scholarship foundation, was used as a model. The first PRIDE Awards night was held in May 2003, awarding $31,150.00 in scholarships
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Since then, PRIDE has raised almost Two Million Dollars through fundraising events, memorial scholarships, memberships and donations. Over 850 scholarships have been awarded to local students! These results could not have been accomplished without the hard work and combined efforts from our community, school district and local businesses.
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PRIDE is a non-profit organization that is volunteer driven.
PRIDE’s board works in conjunction with other community service organizations on its annual fundraiser for the enhancement of each group’s efforts to support our community.
Bond Committee
Ken Buehner
Bruce Dohner
Kathy Martinez
Mike McGarity
Arnold Regalado
Sam Rodriguez
Peter Talia
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Michelle Santos
Edith Stock
Ron Swift
MaryPat Thompson
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Founding Members
Marilynne Allen
Chris Bingham
Sam Cuellar
Faye Hill
Bruce Kelly
Bob Kimball
George Klopping
Peter LaTorre
Dave Santos
Joland Schut
Bob Vizzolini
First Board
Dave Santos
Bob Kimball
President
Vice-President
Joland Schut
Chris Bingham
Secretary
Treasurer