PARKERSBURG, WV — Wood County Schools extends its sincere appreciation to the Cafaro Foundation for its generous $25,000 donation in support of the Jackson Middle School wrestling building project. This significant contribution represents an investment in student-athletes and the continued growth of athletic opportunities within the school district.
The donation was presented during a special ceremony at Grand Central Mall, held in conjunction with the mall's grand opening celebration under Cafaro management. Adding to the festivities, members of the Parkersburg High School Big Red Band and Parkersburg South High School Patriot Band performed prior to the ceremony, bringing together students from both high schools for a memorable community celebration.
The Cafaro Foundation has a long-standing tradition of supporting education and charitable causes. Its mission reflects the generosity of William M. Cafaro, founder of the real estate development and management company bearing his name, and his wife, Alyce. For more than half a century, the couple quietly supported churches, schools, hospitals, and numerous charitable organizations, often choosing to make their contributions anonymously.
Following Alyce Cafaro's passing in 1996, William Cafaro established the foundation to honor her memory and continue their shared legacy of philanthropy. Although Mr. Cafaro passed away in 1998, the foundation has continued their commitment to giving, contributing millions of dollars to a wide variety of worthwhile causes.
The foundation's support of the Jackson Middle School wrestling building project continues that tradition of generosity, helping provide opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills, build confidence, learn teamwork, and experience the benefits of participating in public school athletics.
Wood County Schools recognizes the important role that community partnerships and charitable contributions play in strengthening educational and extracurricular opportunities for students. Investments such as this help create lasting benefits that extend beyond the classroom and athletic competition.
Wood County Schools sincerely thanks the Cafaro Foundation for its generosity, its commitment to young people, and its investment in the Wood County community. The district also appreciates the opportunity for the Big Red and Patriot Bands to participate in this special occasion, showcasing the talent and school pride of Wood County students.
Through partnerships like these, Wood County Schools continues working to provide meaningful opportunities for students to learn, grow, and succeed.