Biddeford and Sanford vocational schools receive $20K from Deering Lumber

YORK COUNTY – York County’s two Regional Career and Technical Centers recently received a substantial donation of $20,000 from Deering Lumber, a distributor of specialty building products in southern Maine.

The funds raised through Deering Lumber’s charity golf tournament this Fall were divided equally among the Biddeford and Sanford Regional Centers of Technology to benefit their building trades programs.

“Proceeds benefited two innovative building trades programs, both of which are developing the next generation of contractors and construction professionals in our area,” said Dave Chapais, Deering Lumber’s Purchasing Manager and one of the organizers of the charity golf event. “It’s a win-win for everyone in our community that these teens have the resources they need to get great educations and prepare for their future careers.”

 “One of the most overlooked benefits of learning a trade is the emphasis on in-demand careers. We prepare graduates to enter some of the best and most reliable careers available. These include essential high-paying careers and fast-growing technical roles. In fact, if students take early steps to discover their passions and pursue classes of interest to them, they will likely have more success in high school and find a job in their field of interest,” said Maine State Board of Education Vice Chair and Biddeford Regional Center of Technology Director Paulette Bonneau

Deering Lumber’s customers, vendor partners, and associates came together for a day filled with networking and to support this worthwhile cause. Long time outside salesman Dan Laskey, was the driving force of the tournament, along with other associates, family and friends. The event, held at Sanford Country Club, ended with an evening of food, drink, awards and raffle prizes.

“The students and I cannot thank Deering Lumber enough for their continued support of this program,” said Troy Hathaway, Sanford Regional Centers of Technology Instructor. “The money raised from the golf tournament will be used to fund projects and experiences that will better prepare our students for life after high school.”

“It was a great day of fun, fundraising and networking,” said Heidi McDonald, President and General Manager of Deering Lumber. “Through the generous support of our community partners we were able to exceed our previous year’s fundraising total by 150%. We look forward to continuing to grow our fundraising efforts in the coming years.”