By Renee Alsobrook

It was an amazing night on Thursday, Nov. 10. The Journey School held the fourth annual Blue Jean Ball at the Lions Club Armory. It has been so heartwarming to see the continued generosity coming from the Selma community. We received such wonderful support from our local businesses, restaurants, media and individuals that purchased tickets. Because of the giving spirit of everyone, we exceeded our goal and raised over $32,000 ensuring the continued success of the school.

Thank you to the countless volunteers who gave their time to bring this special event together. There is no doubt in my mind that The Journey School wouldn’t be possible without Selma’s support.

The Blue Jean Ball is more to The Journey School than a fundraiser. It is a time for everyone to come together and celebrate the unique opportunity the preschool provides to the community. The Journey School offers an educationally filled environment for all children. Every child has individual abilities and we strive to maximize their potential for learning. The teachers and other professionals collaborate to integrate developmental goals into the educational curriculum. This year the school is at maximum capacity with 23 students enrolled. That is why the success of this year’s fundraiser was so important. We want to continue to offer an exceptional program with affordable tuition to the families of Selma.

The proceeds raised allow us to do just that. It has been a truly rewarding experience to see the progress of children in our program. Words cannot describe when you witness another child offering help to another in need. To be a part of the success and developmental growth of so many children is a precious gift and I am grateful for this opportunity.

I want to thank all of the parents who believe in The Journey School and allow us to teach their children. I feel as if we are part of your family as we share in the celebration of milestones and personal achievements of your child.

I want to thank all of our 2011 sponsors: Alabama Livestock Auction; David and Cissy Furhman family; Allen Foster family; Julie R. Sams, DMD Family Dentistry; Alsobrook/Sexton families; Crop Production Services, Delp/Assaad families; Kentucky Fried Chicken; Papa John’s Pizza; Pearce Catfish Farm; Tri-County Rentals; Vaughan Community Health Services; Selma City Council; Jana Garner, Attorney at Reeves & Stewart; Vaughan Regional Medical Center; Moore-Stewart Ford; J&B Auto Parts; Children’s Dentistry of Central Alabama; and James/DeBardeleben families. Other business contributors were American Apparel; The Joe Hagood families; First Cahawba Bank; Partners in Rehabilitation & Wellness; HealthMark Home Medical Equipment; Alabama Conservation Enforcement Officer Association; Madden & Associates; Pepsi; Bama Budweiser of Selma; and Automotive Excitement’s Sign Shop.

Again to the parents, volunteers and The Journey School board members, I want to express my deepest gratitude for giving your time and energy. Your dedication and continued support gives us the chance to work with some amazing children and their families. My life has forever been impacted by the gracious generosity of our Selma community.

Thank you!