Two schools, one event

COEUR d'ALENE - A fundraiser to benefit activities programs at both of Coeur d'Alene's traditional high schools takes place Saturday at The Coeur d'Alene Best Western Inn.

The silent auction and dinner begins at 6 p.m., and a live auction kicks off at 8 p.m.

Tickets are $20, and can be purchased at either high school's office.

In its 10th year, the fundraiser is named "Two Schools One Goal."

"It's a time each year when we come together, and both high schools are united, working together for a cause," said Ann Wheelock, a Lake City High School parent volunteer in her fourth year of helping with the event.

Formerly named "Cruisin' for Kids," the effort was initiated in 2002 when budget shortfalls faced by the school district threatened freshman sports programs at Coeur d'Alene and Lake City high schools.

Administrators, coaches, parents and boosters at the time cast cross-town rivalry aside, and partnered to bring in donations for both schools.

Since then, the annual fundraiser has brought in $278,500 that has been divided between the schools.

"The money raised at Two Schools One Goal goes back to the programs and clubs to keep the programs at the levels they're at," said Todd Gilkey, activities director at Coeur d'Alene High School. "The last few years, it's been particularly helpful."

The fundraiser supports all activities programs, not just sports, Gilkey said, and the dollars are needed as much today as they were when the joint fundraising efforts began.

Advance ticket purchase is encouraged.