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Saint Francis Athletic Booster Club reports $100,000 fundraising, plans $10,000 scholarships
Summary
Booster Club leaders told the board they raised $100,000 to launch charitable gambling activities and plan to award $10,000 in scholarships to graduating student-athletes and to support athletic programs and facilities; board members thanked the group and said staff would explore committee involvement.
Representatives of the Saint Francis Athletic Booster Club presented an update to the St. Francis Area Schools board on Feb. 9, describing three years of organizing to secure a charitable gambling license and to raise start-up funds. The presenters said the group raised $100,000 to start charitable gambling operations and has begun donating to athletic programs.
The Booster Club said it intends in 2026 to provide $10,000 in scholarships for graduating student-athletes and to support equipment and facility needs across programs. "We took those 3 years to raise a $100,000 to start up for charitable gambling," a club representative said. The club named Tracy Thorson as its president and listed other officers, and thanked local businesses such as Tasty Pizza and Oak Road for community partnerships.
Board members praised the effort, calling it "outside the box" and expressing appreciation for local businesses that kept funds in the community. The board president said district staff had already discussed including the Booster Club in committee meetings on activities and facilities so the group can provide input on needs and potential partnerships.
The Booster Club requested a continued partnership with the district to make measurable improvements to athletic programs, and the board indicated it will follow up through appropriate committee channels rather than acting on the request the same night.
