Halton Learning Foundation “Students in the Spotlight” Celebrates Talent While Raising Funds for Halton Students in Need

Halton Learning Foundation (HLF) hosted its annual Students in the Spotlight fundraiser on April 29 at Burlington Central High School, showcasing the remarkable talents of Halton District School Board (HDSB) students while raising funds to support students facing financial barriers.

This year’s event featured an exciting new Student Art Exhibition, with 50 student artists displaying original works throughout the evening. Guests also enjoyed 18 live performances from elementary and secondary students, including singing, dancing, playing instrumental music, and other inspiring acts that highlighted the incredible diversity of talent across HDSB.

The evening concluded with a powerful grand finale of O Canada, as student performers and audience members joined together in a moving celebration of community and student achievement.

Students in the Spotlight is part of HLF Month, a community-wide campaign each April dedicated to supporting students in need across Halton This year’s HLF Month fundraising goal is to help 200 students facing financial barriers. Every donation makes a difference. To support the campaign, visit haltonlearningfoundation.ca/hlfmonth

“Students in the Spotlight is a celebration of what young people can achieve when they are given the opportunity to shine,” said Marc Clare, HLF’s CEO. “Tonight was not only about talent, but it was also about coming together as a community to help remove barriers so every student has the chance to participate, succeed, and reach their full potential.”

In addition to celebrating student talent, the event also delivered immediate impact. Thanks to the generosity of supporters, enough funds were raised during the evening to provide 30 backpacks, each valued at $100, for students in need.

Funds raised through Students in the Spotlight will support HLF’s mission to provide emergency assistance for food, clothing, school supplies, transportation, and access to opportunities for students across Halton.

“This evening reminded us that when a community invests in its students, everyone benefits,” added Clare. “We are incredibly grateful to every performer, volunteer, educator, and attendee who helped make this event such a success. I would also like to thank our sponsors: belairdirect, and Cogeco/Your TV, for helping make this event a huge success.”

“Tonight was so good, it was such an amazing experience I’ll never forget it ever, like being up there, having everyone watching me, it was the coolest thing in the world, everyone was just so talented and skilled, I can’t believe I was among them it was just so amazing, I feel so great knowing that all of this is us helping other students and giving them the support they need by being amongst great talent,” said Lauren Blake a grade 6 student from Sunningdale Public School.

“It’s feels very special, being able to show my artwork amongst some of the most talented artists, while doing it for a great cause, I feel special honestly,” said Collin Blake, a grade 11 student from Nelson High School.

HLF would also like to recognize the students of Burlington Central High School’s Technical Theatre Program, led by teacher Shawn Clement, for their hard work in ensuring the event’s technical production ran smoothly. Special thanks as well to the entire Burlington Central High School community, led by Principal Trish Clark, for warmly welcoming HLF into their outstanding theatre space.

Students in the Spotlight is part of HLF Month, a community-wide campaign each April dedicated to supporting students in need across Halton.

For more information or to support the Halton Learning Foundation or to donate, visit: haltonlearningfoundation.ca/hlfmonth
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