Care to Learn fundraiser brings in over $500K

An annual fundraiser by Springfield nonprofit Care to Learn brought in more than $500,000 for the organization.

Andrea Harp, marketing coordinator for the nonprofit, said the Sept. 12 School Soiree event raised $511,042. She said gifts were provided by sponsors, community partners and individual donors.

"All funds raised support the Care to Learn mission to meet emergent health, hunger and hygiene needs so students can be successful in school," Harp said via email.

Last year's School Soiree event raised $285,000, according to a news release. This year, with a Thursday Night Lights theme, the event at White River Conference Center was sold out with more than 500 guests, officials say.