Last spring, the Larkspur-Corte Madera Schools Foundation (SPARK) held a fundraiser at the Marin Civic Center. Themed after the Kentucky Derby, the event featured a photobooth of our very own.

SPARK invited attendees to “grab your big hats and dashing bow ties, and join us for An Evening at the Races“.

What is SPARK?

Founded in 1980 by a group of concerned parents, the Larkspur-Corte Madera Schools Foundation (SPARK) serves as the primary fundraising arm for the District. Run by parent volunteers, SPARK is committed to raising the funds for programs that are at risk due to ongoing budget cuts and supporting the teachers’ salaries needed to provide these programs. SPARK funds are needed to bridge the gap between the limited funding the District receives from Federal, State, and Local sources and what it actually costs for each child in the District to experience a quality education.

SPARK Foundation Website

The evening’s itinerary included lots of fun activities suitable for all the fancy partygoers to enjoy. Cocktail hour, featuring appetizers and a signature cocktail by Nugget Markets. A sit down dinner, followed by a live auction and fund-a-need fundraiser events. Casino games, a coffee-and-dessert-bar, and awesome music rounded out the evening – not to mention our photobooth, of course!

Live Music: Petty Theft

SPARK brought in some great entertainment for their gala. San Francisco’s very own Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers tribute band, Petty Theft, were the stars of the night’s event! Touring together since 2003, the band is a huge hit. They boast that they’re “all about celebrating the music of one of America’s most treasured songwriters… Tom Petty.” Gala attendees loved them!

Fundraising for a Cause

Different portions of the event featured ways to contribute and raise funds for the SPARK educational cause.

From bidding in a live auction offering “swoon-worthy items from once in a lifetime trips to special experiences” to the “Fund-A-Need” program (see below for details), they do it all. SPARK’s dedication to helping schools, teachers & children is very admirable!

The District Administrators discuss and collaborate with SPARK what they would like to fund at each school that may be outside the funding categories that SPARK already supports. We raise our paddles to support this endeavor with tax-deductible cash donations. 

“What is Fund-A-Need?”

The event was a huge hit! We can’t see what other themes SPARK comes up with for their next gala. We hope you all enjoyed your day at the races!