Thomasville Alumni and Affiliates Host Scholarship Raffle and Homeless Care Drive
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Classmates 1973, Alumni and Affiliates, a local nonprofit is calling on the community to take part in two fundraising efforts this fall, both aimed at supporting local students and families in need. The drives benefit students and families connected to Thomasville High School, East Davidson High School, Lexington Senior High School, and Davidson County, and are open to the public with both in-person and virtual participation available
“Your support for the Scholarship Raffle and Homeless Care Package Collection Drive can help students pursue their education and provide essential assistance to individuals and families experiencing homelessness," organizers said. "Please take part and make a meaningful difference today." Their slogan is “We Live to Give.”
50/50 Scholarship Raffle
Running August 8 through October 24, 2026, the scholarship raffle offers tickets for $1 each, with a $10 minimum purchase, through Cash App at $Class73alumaffil. Proceeds go toward helping high school students continue their education and prepare for meaningful careers.
The raffle is nationwide and fully virtual, giving participants across the country a chance to win a substantial cash prize while supporting local students working toward college and career goals. Organizers say every ticket purchased helps make a lasting impact on a student's future.
For questions about purchasing raffle tickets, contact Robert M. Gilmore at (336) 266-5908.
Homeless Care Package Collection Drive
The second fundraiser through November 7, 2026, is a collection drive for care packages benefiting homeless and disadvantaged individuals and families.
Organizers are asking schools, offices and community locations to host a collection box, and are encouraging faculty and staff participation. Locations that already have a collection box in place are asked to replace their previous item list with the updated list provided by organizers. Central administration offices, middle schools, elementary schools, primary schools, high schools and Communities In Schools locations are specifically encouraged to set up a box.
For those unable to host a collection box but who still want to contribute, monetary donations are being accepted through Deborah L. Gilmore at (336) 307-5595 or Gwen Price at (336) 847-4880 to help purchase needed items.
On November 7, 2026, beginning at 9 am. and continuing until completion, volunteers will gather to sort donated items, place them in nylon bags, and pack them into boxes for distribution. The sorting event will take place at Our Lady of the Highways Catholic Church, 943 Ball Park Rd., Thomasville, NC 27360.
A Community-Wide Call to Action
Organizers say both fundraisers are entering their final stretch and community engagement remains crucial as the deadlines approach. Donations are being accepted for both efforts, and volunteers of all ages are welcome — participants can earn community service or volunteer hours for their time.
The organizers wish to thank the Board of County Commissioners, Chambers of Commerce, local Mayor's, elected officials, the Boards of Education, Thomasville Tourism, First Responders, Library directors, booster clubs, faith communities, family members, local businesses and social media networks.
Organizers extended their thanks in advance for the community's generosity and commitment to both causes, and said they look forward to hearing from residents interested in getting involved.
