Friends of Thorp is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization representing O.A. Thorp Scholastic Academy, a K to 8 Chicago Public School on the northwest side.  We are holding our annual gala and auction on Friday, April 17, 2020, and humbly request consideration of an auction item for our fundraising event.  Each year, we raise funds for school projects that have not been funded by the Chicago Board of Education.  Recent projects funded include: soundproofing cafeteria, installing a safety rail in the balcony of the school auditorium, purchasing and building picnic tables for outdoor lunch, updating science lab equipment, purchasing school lockers, installing artwork displays throughout school, and a three-year effort to build the first playground on campus. This year, our focus is on raising money for outdoor campus improvements, including an athletic field, a learning garden, and a play area that would accommodate those with special learning needs so that students may have a safe and engaging area to play in without fear of injury.  We hope you will consider donating an auction item, such as a gift certificate, gift basket, event passes, admission tickets, etc.  All participating businesses and donors will be prominently featured in our gala booklet, our website, and social media outlets, as well as Thorp's annual yearbook.  Thank you for your consideration and support of public education.