Lennette O'Hern’s Passion For the North Gwinnett Schools Foundation

Making a Big T’Do About Educational Experiences in the North Gwinnett School Cluster

The 2023 Big T'do engaged our supporters in a Mardi Gras theme. Guests had so much fun dressing up and dancing the night away! We cannot wait to see everyone in the Great Gatsby Best!

Resident Lennett O'Hern has lived in Edinburgh since April 2022. She and her family love the social events and overall spirit of the neighborhood. Lennette is passionate about helping the students in our community achieve their highest level of success, and ensuring that their teachers receive the maximum level of support possible. Her involvement with The North Gwinnett Schools Foundation (NGSF) is priceless! We are honored to share this space with her as she shares about NGSF.  

By Lennett O'Hern

The North Gwinnett Schools Foundation is significantly impacting our community by providing grants to teachers and classrooms that go beyond what traditional funding sources offer. With a mission to foster student success and enrich educational experiences within the North Gwinnett Cluster, the foundation stands out by ensuring that 100% of the funds raised stay within our community.

Empowering Classrooms and Enriching Education

The grants awarded by the NGSF support a diverse range of educational initiatives, from multi-lingual libraries and aquaponics systems to advanced science laboratory equipment and specialized tools for band, orchestra, AFJROTC, and art programs. These resources empower teachers to offer unique and enriching experiences that enhance the learning journey of every student in the North Gwinnett Cluster.

A Passion for Education

As the Fundraising Chair of NGSF, Lennette plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the foundation's fundraising efforts. "I love the end result and seeing the grants in action," Lennette shares. "There's no better feeling than knowing our community continues to support our most important assets—our students."

Overcoming Challenges with Creativity

Every initiative faces its challenges, and the NGSF is no exception. This year, the foundation faced a venue change for its major fundraising event, The Big T'Do. Originally held at The River Club, the event will now take place at The Westin Sugarloaf, offering an opportunity for a larger, more vibrant gathering. "Our theme is inspired by Great Gatsby, so we will have a roaring good time!" Lennette enthuses.

Impacting the Community

The efforts of the NGSF have a tangible impact on the North Gwinnett community. Last year, the foundation was able to award over $80,000 in grants, directly enriching the educational experiences of local students. The sense of accomplishment is palpable when the foundation presents the grant checks, knowing that these funds will create lasting benefits for students and teachers alike.

Get Involved: The Big T'Do and Beyond

Looking ahead, the NGSF is excited to host The Big T'Do on November 9th at The Westin Sugarloaf. This Gatsby-themed, adults-only evening promises dinner, dancing, and thrilling silent and live auctions. Past auctions have featured incredible items like a Taylor Swift autographed guitar and trips to exotic locations like Australia and Costa Rica.

In addition to attending the event, community members can participate in the ongoing 50/50 raffle, with last year’s winner taking home over $6,000! Tickets for The Big T'Do sell out every year, so be sure to secure your spot early and consider making a night of it by booking a room at the venue.

The NGSF is also actively seeking sponsors and donors. Whether you have items to donate, services to offer, or connections to potential sponsors, your involvement can make a difference. Reach out to Lennette at lohern@northgwinnettschoolsfoundation.org or visit the foundation's website for more information on sponsorship opportunities.

Together, we can continue to support and uplift our community’s students, ensuring they have the tools and experiences they need to succeed.

Learn more about the NGSF at their website: www.northgwinnettschoolsfoundation.org