Crane Foundation Event Seeks Funds for Ugandan School Completion

In 2005, West Bloomfield resident Sandra Crane invested $100,000 – her life savings – to purchase property in Uganda and build a school there. 
On June 21, Crane will host a sixth fundraiser at Lafayette Banquet Facility in Pontiac with the goal of raising enough money to complete the ground floor of a training center for students ages 18-20 who are interested in the hospitality business. The building is located in Mbarara, a city with a population of about 85,000. 

Craine said the fundraiser's theme "An Evening of Hope: She Smiles at the Future" is based on a verse from the Bible: "Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future." (Proverbs 31:25) 

The school, she says, changes students' lives and gives them a reason to look forward, with hope for a better future. 

"Our graduates are getting jobs," she said. 

She said The Crane Centre does not plan to fund the school's second and third floors. Once the first is finished, she said, profits from rentals for weddings and other celebrations can pay to finish the project. The hospitality industry thrives in Uganda, and locals have also pledged to raise funds. 

The June 21 event will include wine, hors d'oeuvres, live entertainment by internationally known artists John Standefer, a finger-style guitarist, and gospel singers Mark and Andrea Forester. Items up for auction include:

• A limousine rental for 16 people
• Two privately hosted dinner parties for eight
• Girls' night out at a local massage studio
• Lions and University of Michigan football tickets

"The last auction item is an opportunity to support our students," Crane said. 

Guests will also see the debut of a new video that provides a touching and meaningful look at the cause they're supporting. Crane said. 

Tickets for the event are $35 and can be purchased by calling 248-682-2762 or at thecranecentre.org.