Making a Difference, One Ticket at a Time: Why I Volunteered for the Evesham Education Foundation

Bill Smitheman
Volunteer Spotlight: Bill Smitheman
March 31, 2025
Bill Smitheman
Volunteer Spotlight: Bill Smitheman
March 31, 2025
Last March, I came across a post from Evesham Fiscal Allies about the Evesham Education Foundation selling raffle tickets to raise funds for the Evesham Township School District. After closely following the Board of Education meetings and hearing about the growing budget crisis, I knew I had to do something. It was clear that our schools needed support, and I wanted to help. So, I reached out and volunteered. Fast forward to June, and I was joining the board!
 
When I first joined, I couldn’t help but ask myself, “How am I going to manage this?” I have a full-time job that requires over 40 hours a week, two children, and countless other responsibilities. It felt like a lot to take on. But then, I thought back to my school days and remembered one teacher who had a lasting impact on my life. It was my AP Biology teacher, who introduced me to the work of Anna Quindlen. One of Quindlen’s articles, "Exhaust the Little Moment," left an impression on me. In it, she tells the story of a woman who volunteered at a soup kitchen despite her already-busy life. When asked how she found the time, her response was simple: “How could I not?”
 
That answer stuck with me because it’s a powerful reminder that no matter how full our lives may feel, we all have something to give. Whether it’s our time, energy, or resources, every little bit can make a difference. Right now, our schools need us more than ever. With funding cuts affecting classrooms, teachers, and students, it’s up to all of us to step up and support where we can.
 
Since joining the Evesham Education Foundation, I’ve learned so much about the organization and the people behind it. Just two weeks ago, I had the privilege of meeting some of the founding members, who shared incredible stories of silent donors and community members who matched funds to help raise money for the district. I was inspired by current board members who are still dedicated to ensuring that Evesham students have access to the best education possible. In fact, over the past 30 years, the foundation has raised over $3 million for ETSD! That’s an incredible achievement, but just imagine what we could accomplish with even more people giving their time.
 
One of the most tangible ways you can help right now is by volunteering to sell 50/50 raffle tickets. It may seem like a small task, but the funds raised from this effort will have a huge impact on our schools and our children’s futures. Even giving just a few hours of your time can make a real difference in supporting our community.
 
If you’re able to help, I’d love for you to join us. Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of the students who depend on us. Whether you have a lot of time to give or just a little, your contribution matters.
 
If you’re interested in learning more or want to get involved, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly. I’d be happy to provide more details or help you get started.
 
Thank you for considering giving your time to this important cause.
 
Warm regards,
Kat Kirk-Yurevitz
Raffle Committee, Board Member
kathleen.kirk-yurevitz@eveshameducationfoundation.org