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High school senior seeks $46,000 to buy driving simulators for local schools
Summary
Nevada Union senior Cassia Dunham told the Grass Valley City Council she hopes to raise $46,000 at a March 28 Country Gala to buy three driving simulators for local schools, citing research and plans for a later behind‑the‑wheel practice course.
Cassia Dunham, a Nevada Union High School senior, asked the Grass Valley City Council on March 24 to support a Country Gala fundraiser set for March 28 to raise $46,000 to buy three driving simulators — one each for Nevada Union, Bear River and a desktop unit for Silver Springs. Dunham said the simulators are intended to increase driving experience for students who need extra practice, particularly those with special needs.
"The goal of this fundraiser is to raise $46,000 to purchase three driving simulators," Dunham told the council, adding the devices include structured curricula, tests and progress reports teachers and parents can use. She said the simulators do not replace driver’s‑education or behind‑the‑wheel classes but provide extra practice and confidence before students encounter traffic.
Dunham played video clips of students describing how simulator practice would help them, and a clip of Temple Grandin discussing the hours of driving practice she said helped her learn to operate a vehicle. Dunham also described a Phase 2 plan in which, after simulator training, students could practice behind‑the‑wheel on an 80‑acre ranch where the district has access to a donated training car.
Local organizations have donated in‑kind support for the gala: the Grass Valley Elks Lodge provided a venue and equipment, Nevada Union Culinary will provide dinner at cost and volunteers, the Nevada Union floral department will make centerpieces, and Calvary Bible Church donated linens. Dunham said the fundraiser will feature a silent auction, dinner, a simulator demonstration, a live auction and line dancing.
Dunham invited donations by check, cash or electronic payment and encouraged attendance and promotion. She provided a website (writingforthefuture.com) and flyers that council staff offered to distribute.
The council thanked Dunham for the presentation and praised the project’s organization. No formal council action was required. The fundraiser is scheduled for March 28, 2026.
