Allentown HS Alumni Group Hosts Fundraiser for Student Programs
Allentown High School Alumni [non-profit] group is holding a fundraiser to support AHS student academic and athletic programs. On May 19, 2023, AHS alum and founder of the AHS 1980s Alumni group, Scott Trethaway, will spend a day in In-House suspension to raise funds for the students of the alma mater. Trethaway was “sentenced” to a day of suspension 35 years ago due to a practical joke he pulled on the day of his graduation, but he never served his time. Trethaway will “turn himself in” to the Allentown High School Administration for the first time, and the alumni group hopes the community will join them in raising his “bail” funds. According to Superintendent of Schools Mr. Mark Guterl, this is the first time in the high school’s history that an alumni group is supporting students in this manner. One hundred percent of the donations will benefit AHS student programs.
The AHS 1980s non-profit group was established in the fall of 2022 to support one of their own, Thomas Falkowski. Class of “89 was inducted into the AHS Sports Hall of Fame in October during 2022 Homecoming. This induction was especially significant because the Allentown football program had nearly been eliminated in the late 1980s. Nevertheless, the tenacity, school spirit, and passion of the student body saved the football program. Today, the AHS football program is holding its own in the overall standings.
The AHS 1980s Alumni group has a membership of over 800 people, with a focus on reconnecting and reminiscing. Most of the friendships that formed within the group originated from participating in academic and athletic programs. The group is hoping to demonstrate to the current AHS students that their programs and the friendships that sprout from them can last a lifetime, and they are dedicated to giving back. “These programs matter and so do the students,” says Trethaway. “If we can inspire and support both, that’s what we want to do.”
Contributions can be made through Venmo @Redbirds4EverAlumni or PayPal.ME/AHSalumni4ever.
The event’s posters will present Trethaway as “Wanted,” with the words “will hand himself over for bail money.” His picture will be on the poster, which will also indicate the date and time of the fundraiser, which will take place at the Allentown High School Administration office.
