King Street Center’s summer isn’t all about kids and summer camp fun. It’s also our opportunity to raise critical funds to support King Street Center programs. Two-thirds of our annual $1.3 million budget is raised privately. Yes, that’s from friends, foundations, and local businesses! Events are a great way to celebrate the work of King Street Center, build relationships, and also to help fill this bucket.
Each summer kicks off with our Bob Aldrich Memorial Golf Tournament. This year 120 golfers enjoyed a gorgeous day at Burlington Country Club on June 24 while contributing funds through registration fees and the purchase of mulligans, skins, and participating in our raffle! We greatly appreciate all those who come out – many of whom have been loyal participants for years. We look forward to seeing you next year at our 30th annual tournament.
The Backyard Classic is another playful gathering of adult friends and fans of King Street Center. Featuring a cornhole tournament led by Dealer.com’s Mitch Terricciano, guests also enjoy ping pong, tetherball, kan jam, and lots of other lawn games. Dining on a delicious Farmhouse picnic dinner, party-goers also enjoy Zero Gravity brews served by Nectar’s. This year we especially enjoyed welcoming a pop-up tasting with Dedalus and dessert by Lake Champlain Chocolates. This year’s event was made especially fun thanks to our host committee, including Matt & Katie Campbell, Jai Macker & Emma Voci, Ashley & Lee Klein, Stacie & Mark Fagan, Ann & Wayne Pastore, Vicky Smith & Dave Porteous, Erica & Greg Danford, Chris & Teresa Scott, Liz & Eric Miller, Jason Zuliani & 
Emilie Paquette, and Mike Lane & Cat Caravelli. Dealer.com’s sponsorship and logistical support truly makes the Backyard Classic possible. And, we are also grateful to Burlington Tennis Club for providing a beautiful setting with lots of hands on deck. Check out some photos on facebook.
The Rally for King Street Raffle kicked off at the golf tournament and concluded at the Backyard Classic. Hundreds of friends bought $5 tickets in the hopes of winning some amazing prizes donated by generous businesses. Thank you SO much to Hen of the Wood, Farmhouse, Burlington Surf Club, Befit, Middlebury Inn, Inn at Shelburne Farms, Honey Road, Hotel Vermont, Queen City Yoga, Dedalus, REV, Patagonia, the Great Northern, and Deb & Rick Estabrook. This year’s raffle was the most successful to date! Congratulations to the lucky winners.
Summer Sponsors are local businesses who dig deep to support King Street Center summer programs. As a show of our appreciation, they are invited to bring golfers to play at the tournament and party guests to enjoy the Backyard Classic. They truly fuel our 8 weeks of toddler, preschool, K-5 camp, and teen programs from June-August. Thank you to Redstone, Community Bank, Patagonia Burlington, Shearer Automotive, Snyder Homes, Rock Point Advisors, Hickok & Boardman, Farmhouse, and Peregrine Design Build.