The Northwestern Lehigh Education Foundation held its annual fundraiser Oct. 16 at Lehigh Valley Sporting Clays, Coplay.

After beginning their day with a light breakfast, teams of four shooters set off along the green course for a morning of fun and sometimes competitive clay shooting all to support a great cause.

Through its initiatives, the NWLEF provides grants, scholarships, professional development, and cultural arts support to improve the educational experience for district students.

Over the years, through the foundation’s Teacher Mini-Grant Program and the Earned Income Tax Credit program, Northwestern Lehigh students have benefited from classroom smart boards, chrome books, and multiple other educational enhancements.

“We are raising money for the kids for programs and items that are not covered in the district’s budget,” said Dan Macaulay, foundation vice president. “The EITC program has helped us raise over 731,000 in grants.

“And we have provided over 530 chrome books for classrooms.”

According to Macaulay, this year’s event attracted 15 teams or 60 people.

He thanked Lehigh Valley Sporting Clays for hosting the event.

“They have been very helpful with this program,” Macaulay said. “They dedicated the green course to us today as well as use of the facilities.”

After the friendly competition was over, the teams were treated to a luncheon with meat from Hartman’s Butcher Shop, New Tripoli. The meal, with all the fixings, featured a special pulled pork recipe made by DJ Wolbert, foundation president.

During the luncheon, the NWLEF provided a slide show of the teams, thank-you bags, and announced team awards and game winners.

The Northwestern Lehigh Education Foundation encourages residents and businesses to become involved in its initiative which is vital to continuing “the extraordinary range and caliber of academic, extra-curricular, athletic and social opportunities” provided by a Northwestern Lehigh School District education.