The Why Not You Foundation raises $129,000 for Why Not You Academy
In partnership with Chef Michael Mina of Bourbon Steak Seattle, the Why Not You Foundation hosted School Night Out, an intimate fundraising dinner presented by HomeStreet Bank, where guests came together with a shared passion for bridging the gap of equity in education.
A total of $129,000 was raised to directly benefit the Why Not You Academy (WNYA) and further build out its programming so more students have the skills they need to succeed. These programs include but are not limited to the Limitless Minds curriculum, a year-long mindset, and mental conditioning program focused on career readiness, college preparation, and building habits for post-high school success; and Leaving to Learn, allowing students to explore their interests, connect with mentors, develop professional relationships and gain real-world experience.
The evening kicked off with WNYF co-founder Russell Wilson welcoming guests and thanking them for attending. Why Not You Academy co-founders Co-Founders Scott Canfield and Garth Reeves addressed the guests and talked about their journey from wanting to open the school to connecting with Russell & Ciara on their shared passion, to opening the school this fall. Harry Wilson the CEO and Co-Founder of Limitless Minds spoke about integrating their curriculum into the WNYA. WNYA student Melanie V. shared a bit about her experience at the school and highlighted how supportive the staff has been and how she’s learning to overcome obstacles. During the evening guests dined on a 4-course meal prepared by Chef Michael Mina including roasted butternut squash soup, phyllo-wrapped scallops. braised beef short ribs and Basque cheesecake. Betz Family Winery offered a wine pairing and Sazerac cocktails were being poured.
“Overall it's been an amazing experience and I’m so excited about what the future holds. The staff at this academy are really supportive, from checking in on how you’re doing every day and making sure the environment we’re in is a safe space. They will always be there to help us in our times of need… My experience at WNYA is nothing I’ve experienced in public schools.” - WNYA student Melanie V.
Why Not You Foundation Leadership and WNYA Co-Founders
(Left to right) Carly Young, Scott Canfield, Russell Wilson, Garth Reeves, and Ryan Tarpley.
Interested in getting involved with the Why Not You Academy?
Schedule a campus tour:
We invite you to visit WNYA and meet our staff and students! If you would like to arrange a campus tour, please contact CEO Scott Canfield at scanfield@wnyacademy.org or 253.339.8601.
Mentorship and Internship Opportunities:
Are you interested in supporting WNYA students through the Leaving to Learn internship and Limitless Minds mentorship programs? For more information about both programs, please contact the following WNYA staff:
Chief Academic Officer: Garth Reeves, greeves@wnyacademy.org or 253.339.8600
Limitless Minds: Josefina Gonzalez, jgonzalez@wnyacademy.org
Leaving to Learn: Gwen Lennox, glennox@wnyacademy.org
Thank you to our sponsors!
Presenting sponsor
Supporting Sponsors
