The Blanco County Show Barn was the last-minute setting for the JCCEF Annual Scholarship Gala on April 5th. Guests enjoyed a delicious dinner catered by Vivere’ followed by dancing and music provided by the Scott Crofts Band. Wine and beer were donated by Becker Vineyards and the courtesy of Ben E. Keith Beverage Division of Llano.
The plan was to hold the JCCEF primary fundraising event at the recently renovated Exhibit Hall with dining and dancing under the stars. The forecast of 40-degree weather and 30mph winds for Saturday evening spurred a flurry of work in thirty-six hours to recreate the “Fiesta!” inside the show barn.
Approximately 240 guests seemed to take the move in stride as they enjoyed the wine and beer service, fine dining, and music. Servers and cashiers for the event were members of the LBJ High School Class of 2025.
Guests enthusiastically took part in a Wine Pull, Raffle, and games of Heads or Tails for a wide array of prizes which were generously donated by individuals and businesses in and around Johnson City.
The JCCEF is a 501(c)3 nonprofit which was founded in 2005. The first scholarships were awarded in 2006.
JCCEF President Cynthia Keene said, “Each year we award scholarships to our graduating seniors, and we are expecting a large number of applicants this year.”
Keene joined the all-volunteer Board of Directors during the first year and is the longest-serving Director.
“The applicants are scored on academics, community service, and school activities. They also undergo an interview process in front of our entire Board. We award scholarships to students who attend universities, community colleges, and trade schools,” Keene said.
The JCCEF accepts donations throughout the year and focuses its efforts on two major fundraising events. These are the Homecoming BBQ at the annual Community Pep Rally in the fall and the Gala in the spring.
Keene said that total in scholarships to date is $366,600.00 awarded to ninety-six students. The amount of funds awarded each year is determined by the success of those fundraising efforts.
“An event like this - especially with the late-hour changes - takes a tremendous amount of effort from our Directors. Each year we are amazed by the generosity of folks in the community, including those who help in the preparation for the event and donate items to make the raffle and games first-class for our guests,” Keene said.
Attendees in turn were equally as generous with the dollars they contributed during the activities at the event.
The goal of the JCCEF is to give JC students the best possible start as they embark on their future endeavors. We hope that the scholarships we award through efforts such as hosting the Gala help to equip them as they leave high school and pursue their educational and career goals.
“Many thanks to the community for coming out and supporting our students and enjoying a fun evening with us!,” said Keene.
