KEEPING THE FAITH

Saint Andrew “funraiser” lights up Cape for five days

Saint Andrew "funraiser" lights up Cape for five days

When Saint Andrew Catholic School opened its doors in August of 1989 under the leadership of then-Pastor Father Timothy Murphy, Principal Sister Elizabeth Dunn and a dedicated team of Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters, the mission was “Building Faith, Hearts and Minds.” It initially enrolled 80 students from kindergarten through third grade.

Nearly 30 years later, that mission remains the bedrock upon which the faith community has grown and flourished. The school expanded through eighth grade in 1991 and constructed new classrooms, administrative offices, a cafeteria and computer lab. Its student population reached 389. Seven years later, more than 500 students would call Saint Andrew home. More recent milestones include the addition of a TV studio in the media center, the “My Refuge” sculpture presented by renowned artist Tiité Baquero, and an open-air pavilion for basketball and other outdoor events.

Its inaugural fundraiser festival was held on church and school grounds in 1992 to raise funds to further the mission, build extracurricular programs and offer financial assistance to families. “Saint Andrew Catholic School has received countless benefits from our annual festival,” Father Gordon Zanetti, parish administrator, proudly states. “Not only does our school profit, but the Cape Coral community as a whole benefits. Those who att end see how our fundraiser festival enhances all of Cape Coral living!”

Illuminating Cape Coral nights for five days each January has been a tradition in the city ever since. From both directions on Del Prado Boulevard, from nearby neighborhoods and Veterans Parkway overpass near the intersection, church and school grounds transform into the city’s main focal point. You can’t miss the massive carnival rides, live entertainment, amazing food— and anticipation about the $10,000 raffle and silent auction—all set to assist the faith community’s goal of uplifting its families and students while continuing to honor its core mission.

Saint Andrew Catholic School’s principal, Dr. Judi Hughes, explains that funds raised by the festival are an integral part of supporting the school’s creative method of teaching, known as STREAM. Initiated schoolwide in 2014, it stands for Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art and Math.

“STREAM is the integration of religion and art into the STEM educational concept,” she says. “Our children need to be able to inquire, think, investigate and innovate. This method supports the acquisition of these lifelong skills preparing our students for successful careers in the 21st century. It’s also had a positive impact on academic achievement, as well as increased performance on standardized tests.”

The impact that the annual festival has on the church community, school and the entire city can’t be understated. A heartfelt invitation is extended to all to attend and support the Saint Andrew 27th Annual Festival—to ensure keeping the faith and honoring the mission.