Despite Mother Nature's protest, Clark Associates once again held its annual Derby Day fundraiser at The Farm at Eagles Ridge on Saturday evening, May 7, 2022. The year's event marked the 10th anniversary of Derby Day.
Even with the rain, wind, and cold temperatures, the donation total exceeded last year's record of $1.2 million. It will represent more than a quarter of the Foundation's giving this year.
Derby Day is the company’s signature event with a weekend full of unique experiences involving Clark Associates business partners and members of the non-profit community. All proceeds from the event go to Clark Associates Charitable Foundation and will be distributed to a variety of local charities and educational foundations.
Derby Day began in 2013 as a fundraiser for the Conestoga Valley Education Foundation and quickly grew in scope and capacity. Through the creative energy of Beth Clark, wife of company founder, Fred Clark, and the dedicated efforts of the employee-led Derby Day Committee, revenues have grown from a first-year total of $25,000.00 to this year's grand total of over $1.4 million.
Organizations benefiting from Derby Day proceeds include those assisting children and adults with disabilities, foster care programs, and organizations for people in need. Additionally, donations will benefit emergency services and institutions expanding innovative youth education.
Participants at this year's event didn't allow Mother Nature to dampen their spirits. Over 350 tickets were purchased for the event, and participants enjoyed the traditions and style of the Kentucky Derby while waiting for “The Most Exciting Two Minutes In Sports" to be broadcasted live throughout the venue.
Attendees were entertained by the eclectic sounds of the Uptown Band while enjoying features such as the traditional hat contest emceed by WGAL News 8 reporter Anne Shannon.
Guests enjoyed complimentary mint julep cocktails, a cigar parlor, bourbon tasting, a silent auction, and plenty of horse wagering and games of chance.
Derby Day's growth would not be possible without detailed preparation, so planning for the 2023 event has already begun. Clark Associates founder Fred Clark summed it up best, "The evolution of this event has been amazing. We couldn't pull it off without the help of so many Clark volunteers. It's truly a win-win for everybody involved."
About Clark Associates
Clark Associates is a privately held company headquartered in Lancaster, PA and has been recognized as one of Central Pennsylvania's fastest growing companies as well as Foodservice Equipment & Supplies magazine's 2015 Dealer of the Year.
Employing over 6,000 people, Clark’s multiple divisions and branches in distribution, sales, and technology serve a variety of commercial foodservice customers nationwide. For more information on our business and history, please visit www.clarkinc.biz.