The Palo Alto Black and White Ball Beneficiaries

Palo Alto Recreation Foundation (PARF)

The Palo Alto Recreation Foundation (www.parecfoundation.org) is a nonprofit organization that assists the City of Palo Alto Recreation Division in sponsoring and funding programs and special events to promote the social, cultural and recreational needs of Palo Alto residents and visitors to the city. The Foundation enhances youth, senior, family and neighborhood interactions, and promotes health and wellness throughout the Palo Alto community. Through collaborative efforts, the Foundation supports many programs that play an integral part in the well-being and success of Palo Alto's youth.

Proceeds from the 2006 Ball helped the Foundation fund the middle school athletic program, assisted Youth Community Service (YCS) with their summer programs and helped furnish the Teen Center and the computer lab at Mitchell Park Community Center. Contributions supported Teen Leadership training and recognition. These programs strive to strengthen life skills and social adjustment for our youth through a connection with their community and by encouraging them to pursue positive social activities. They develop skills, friendships, and self-esteem. The Foundation also funds the Mitchell Park youth and teen center and summer camps, middle school intern and athletic programs, senior's New Year's Eve Bash, special events and special interest classes.

Palo Alto Partners in Education (PIE)

Palo Alto Partners in Education Palo Alto Partners in Education (www.papie.org) is committed to sustaining a community tradition of extraordinary education. As our community's partner we want to ensure that every child, at every PAUSD school, in every year, has access to the classes, teaching and tools that he or she needs to succeed. Whether for reading, art, science or math for elementary school; or for electives, technology, libraries or counseling for secondary school, Palo Alto Partners in Education provides much-needed resources for students throughout the Palo Alto school district.

Last year, Palo Alto Partners in Education provided funding for vital technology needs, reduced class sizes, valued staff and programs, supplemental instructional materials, elective offerings, and library materials and staff. This year, proceeds from the Ball will continue to help fund vital educational needs. Palo Alto Partners in Education relies on the generous support of the community to help our schools maintain excellence by meeting classroom needs unfunded by other means. It is committed to building a true public/private partnership to provide a significant, stable source of funding for the Palo Alto Unified School District.