February 11, 2009

Former first lady of Colorado to address Seeds of Hope luncheon

By John Gleason

Next month, the Seeds of Hope Charitable Trust will host its 10th annual Hope Springs Eternal luncheon in Denver. 

The annual event benefits the trust, which supports Catholic elementary and high schools serving low-income, high minority population concentrated in the inner city of Denver.  The lives of children attending these schools are characterized by crime and poverty.  By providing tuition assistance to students of all faiths, they are afforded the opportunity to attend Catholic schools.  Seeds of Hope believes that educating an impoverished child can save a life.

The program, which will include remarks by former Colorado first lady Frances Owens on the subject of quality education and making sure that children are provided the opportunity to succeed, will feature two inner-city principals and two inner-city students who will share their stories of how a Catholic education has influenced themselves, their families and even their schools.

Seeds of Hope Executive Director Betsy Boudreau said those attending the luncheon are in for a real treat.

“It’s exciting to have Mrs. Owens with us,” Boudreau said, “but the real story will be about principals sharing their experiences about Seeds of Hope as well as the students and the impact that Catholic education has had on their lives.”

The Bell Choir and Hallelujah Chorus of Guardian Angels School will be on hand to perform.

In past years, the event has attracted more than 300 people. Boudreau hopes to reach that goal this year as well.

“We’re looking forward during rough economic times,” she said. “We hope that people will come and enjoy themselves and talk to the students and principals.”

As an example of how people continue to offer financial support in difficult times, Boudreau said that the 100 Days of Hope campaign, launched in December at the Evening of Hope, has raised more than $1 million in cash and pledges.  The campaign was announced by John Harpole, chairman of the Seeds of Hope board of trustees.

“Since being founded 12 years ago, Seeds of Hope has grown from assisting 259 students that first year to a record 1,700 last year,” he said.  “Today, we’ve realized a larger number of requests for tuition assistance than in any time in our history.”

The goal of the campaign was to raise $2 million by Feb. 15. Boudreau said that those interested in supporting Catholic education are invited to participate.
“Look at what Seeds of Hope has done for the children and listen to their stories,” she said.  “Even thought this is a tough time people continue to come forward and help.”

The Hope Springs Eternal luncheon is set for 11:30 a.m. March 13 at the Hyatt Regency Tech Center, 7800 E. Tufts Ave. in Denver.  The luncheon and program will begin at noon.

Tickets are $70 per person; patron tables of 10 are $3,000.  Reservation deadline is March 5.  For more information, call Seeds of Hope at 303-715-3127.