The Chandler Education Foundation recently announced the winner and proceeds of its 21st annual Winner’s Choice Car or Cash Raffle Fundraiser.

This year, the fundraiser shifted to an online platform, resulting in record-breaking participation and donations.

The lucky winner, Sue H., purchased just one ticket — No. 1735 — to support her niece, a teacher at Frye Elementary School. She opted for the $20,000 cash prize.

The transition to an online format proved pivotal, enabling CEF to surpass previous fundraising benchmarks. Selling more than 7,000 tickets, the event raised $151,880 this year.

“These funds will play a vital role in supporting the IMPACT Chandler scholarships that acknowledge the remarkable achievements of our students,” said Frank Narducci, Superintendent for the Chandler Unified School District. “These competitive financial awards recognize outstanding public service coupled with high academic achievement, empowering CUSD students to make a positive difference in our community. The funds will provide valuable school resources, fostering educational initiatives and enhancing student development programs.”

Launched on Jan. 9, with a bonus Early Bird drawing on Feb. 8, the district-wide event drew support from staff, teachers, the CEF Board, and school parent booster groups.

The grand prize drawing was livestreamed on the raffle website on March 8, with the lucky winner notified the same day.

“I still can’t believe I won,” Sue H. said when notified of her winning ticket. “My niece asked me to get a ticket and I just considered it a donation. I never thought I’d actually win.”

The Chandler Education Foundation’s Executive Director, Jen Hewitt, congratulated Sue H.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who contributed to the phenomenal success of this year’s fundraiser,” Hewitt said. “The overwhelming support underscores the community’s commitment to investing in education and providing opportunities for all students in Chandler Unified. With these funds, we can continue to make a significant impact in the lives of our students and educators.”

The Chandler Education Foundation extends sincere appreciation to the event sponsors, Big Two Toyota, Toyota Financial Services, Intel, and Cross-Cultural Dynamics, as well as the Chandler Unified staff and raffle participants, whose donations propelled this year’s fundraiser to unprecedented dollar amounts.

The IMPACT Chandler scholarships funded through this event will be awarded to recipients, along with the CEF scholarships established and funded through individual donors, at the high school celebrations the last week of April.

CEF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1986. Through events, campaigns, and partnerships, CEF provides financial support to promote equitable access to learning and enrichment opportunities, stimulate classroom innovation and ensure academic excellence for Chandler Unified students.

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