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Olympic Gold Medalist and WNBA star Katie Smith to Speak

Nelsonville, OH – It is essential to invest in the future leadership of Appalachian Ohio. The iBELIEVE Foundation Fund, held within the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, ensures Appalachian Ohio’s youth are prepared to become leaders in their schools and, most importantly, in their communities. On November 6th, the iBELIEVE Foundation will host its first annual Mid-Ohio Valley Dinner Event, Courage, Commitment, and Cocktails, to support their work with the region’s youth.

The iBELIEVE Foundation’s goal is to provide students with the leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills they need to be successful. The iBELIEVE Foundation provides scholarship support to enable high school student participation in the Ohio Association of Student Councils (OASC) summer leadership workshops. Participating in these workshops enables students to identify personal strengths, to develop their weaknesses, and to gain the critical leadership and workforce development skills they need for current and future success.

The dinner will be held at 6PM on Wednesday, November 6th at the Nemesis Shrine Temple in Parkersburg, West Virginia. The event will feature cocktails, a casual dinner, and a silent auction in an effort to raise funds to support students in leadership activities. Three-time Olympic gold medalist and former WNBA Champion Katie Smith will headline the evening’s proceedings as the keynote speaker. Ray Blackburn, local Wendy’s franchise owner throughout Appalachian Ohio and West Virginia, will be celebrated as the 2013 iGIVE Honoree for his countless contributions to the Mid-Ohio Valley community.

“We are thrilled to have our first benefit dinner in the Mid-Ohio Valley,” said Patrick Klein, Director of the iBELIEVE Foundation. “Washington and Wood counties are where the foundation started in our first years.  The students from these areas are special and we are excited about providing more opportunities for them. The night will highlight some incredible local leaders, companies, and students who have done amazing things. I am excited to welcome Katie Smith, one of Appalachian Ohio’s all-time greats, to speak as well.”

Individual tickets and table sponsorships are now available for purchase. For more information, contact Patrick Klein, Director of the iBELIEVE Foundation, by calling 614-827-5463 or by emailing pklein@theibelievefoundation.org. You can learn more about the iBELIEVE Foundation at www.theibelievefoundation.com.

Gifts to the iBELIEVE Foundation Fund are tax-deductible and can be made in many ways, including cash, bequests, and life insurance. To mail your donation, please designate the iBELIEVE Foundation Fund and mail to the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, PO Box 456, Nelsonville, OH 45764. Donations can also be made online through Network for Good by designating the iBELIEVE Foundation Fund.
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