Anacortes Rotary raises $80,000 to support mental health program

As published in the Anacortes American

The Anacortes Rotary Club recently raised $80,000 that will help fund a social worker as part of the Mental Health Intervention Program in the Anacortes School District.

“Rotary’s support for this program really exceeded our expectation, an amazing response,” Anacortes School District Superintendent Mark Wenzel said in a press release. “We have a critical need for mental health therapy and social work in our schools.

This contribution will have direct, lasting impact on the well-being and future success of our students.”

The money was part of $110,000 raised at the club’s annual fundraiser, which about 200 people attended.

The previous raise the paddle record amount was $46,000 (raised for the mental health program in 2013).

“I am proud of our community and our club for setting a new club fundraising record,” Anacortes Rotary President Kevin Meenaghan said in a press release. “Especially fantastic is that every dollar for the Mental Health Program returns to the community for a much-needed program.”