ADAMS TWP — When the Mars Planet Foundation board nervously decided to organize their first golf outing fundraiser, they had no idea of the overwhelming community support they would receive.

Bonnie Weaver, who serves on the boards of both the Mars School District and the foundation, told the school board at their Tuesday evening meeting that the educational foundation raised $11,664 at the Friday event. The outing was held at Rittswood Golf Course in Middlesex Township.

Weaver said the foundation hoped to attract 18 tee sponsors. Instead, 40 businesses signed up to sponsor tees.

She also said far more golfers turned out than expected, and many who won cash prizes donated their winnings back to the foundation.

The golf outing also boasted several upscale silent auction baskets, which Weaver said accounted for a significant part of the amount raised.

Raffle basket themes included gift cards, lottery, Pirates tickets and parking pass, wine and summertime.

Weaver recognized several foundation and school board members as well as community members and Superintendent William Pettigrew for all their hard work and guidance in organizing the event.

“They were all just unbelievable,” Weaver said.

The Mars Planet Foundation provides funding to develop and promote educational programs, activities and projects in the school district. The foundation was formed in 2009 to replace the Mars Area Foundation for Educational Excellence, known as MAFFEE.

School board President Dayle Ferguson also praised Weaver.

“Bonnie deserves a lot of the credit,” she said.

Ferguson said the golf outing was a true community event, as she saw residents and business people as well as Mars teachers, parents, administrators and board members on the golf course.

She also praised the spirit of collaboration among all those who worked to organize the golf outing.

“When things seem to be seamless, it is a direct reflection of the teamwork going on,” Ferguson said.

Weaver said the foundation will likely hold the second Mars Planet Foundation Golf Outing next summer.