Getting an education is important nowadays. The Luce family believes a young member should have the opportunity to attend higher education when she reaches 18. The family is having a benefit to raise money for her educational trust fund.
In December, Nicholas Luce of Fredonia passed away unexpectedly. He is survived by his parents Paul and Ramona, his brother Jason and his infant daughter Alayna Marie, who is 18 months. Paul and his brother, along with several friends decided to raise money for Alayna so she will be taken care of.
Since Nicholas was a full-time student at the time of his death, he had not worked enough for Alayna to receive benefits, Paul explained.
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Alayna Marie Luce
"We thought we would do this because there are no benefits for her social security wise," Paul said. "(Nicholas) didn't work enough quarters for her to be eligible for anything."
An educational trust fund account for Alayna Marie Luce has been started at Inner Lakes Federal Credit Union, 3795 Lakeview Road, Fredonia. Anyone who wants to make a monetary donation may do so at the branch.
"We wanted to do something so that when she does decide to further her education, there will be something there for her," Paul said. "It's going to be education money for her."
Fact Box
Alayna Marie Luce fundraiser
What: Fundraiser for Alayna Marie Luce
Where: Fredonia Beaver Club
When: Saturday from 12 to 5 p.m.
Why: To raise funds for an educational trust fund set up in Alayna's name at Inner Lakes Federal Credit Union
A benefit will be held on Saturday from 12 to 5 p.m. at the Beaver Club in Fredonia. Tickets are $10 which includes dinner. A silent auction and raffle prizes will be a part of the event.
"We've got really great prizes. I've got a Colt McCoy signed helmet from the Cleveland Browns (and) their entire team has signed a football," Paul said.
In addition, sports merchandise from the Buffalo Sabres, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Philadelphia Flyers will be available as prizes and auction items.
"There's going to be something for everybody," Paul said.
Paul has been grateful for everyone who has donated to the benefit thus far.
"This is the best area. Anybody that needs anything, everybody steps forward," Paul said.
To buy tickets, contact a committee member. Tickets may also be purchased at the door. Committee members can be reached at these phone numbers: Brian Luce at 679-5882; Paul Luce at 680-2055; John Monaco at 672-9888; Pat Ambrose at 679-5584; Steve Siragusa at 673-6570; or Gus Potkovick at 997-6014.
Donations are still being accepted for the benefit. If anyone would like to donate contact any committee member.
Comments on this article may be sent to smcdonnell@observertoday.com.
