The Lexington-Richland District 5 foundation is hosting its “Gala for Growth” on Thursday, Oct. 24, at 6 p.m. at the Cooperative Conference Center located at 169 Laurelhurst Ave. in Columbia.

Entertainment will be provided by Gary “Thrills” Mills throughout the night. Tickets cost $75 and can be purchased at www.district5foundation.org.

The foundation's goal is to enhance the education of the students by raising funds for programs and meeting the needs of diverse students, educators and faculty members.

With the money raised, the foundation contributes towards valuable programs that benefit both the students and the teachers.

50% of the money goes to innovative programs, 29% goes to recurring programs, 11% goes to student research projects and 10% goes to the snack pack program.

The foundation offers grants to educators who come up with educational start-up programs that will enrich the students’ lives.

The snack pack programs offer nutritious foods to children who cannot afford food during the weekend.

During the 2022-23 school year, the snack pack program served over 700 students.

Students receive funds from the foundation to assist in research projects in science and education. Past funds have been awarded to students from Spring Hill High School, Irmo High, Dutch Fork High, Chapin High and the Center for Advanced Technical Studies.