Car Wash for Culture

Cars were lined up all morning for a car wash by the Wandering Rays of Marco Island Academy. Up bright and early, the History and Culture Club held their first fundraiser of the year on October 19 outside of Kretch’s to raise money for the upcoming summer trip. Every year, students from Marco Island Academy have an opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Teachers from the school organize lengthy trips that have taken students to France, Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal, and many more impressive locations. The monthly car washes are a way for the travelers to bond with each other before their big trip while raising money that gets put towards expenses like meals and bonus excursions. This past year's trip itinerary was full of everything from historical sites to scenic views to free time for the students to explore on their own. Visiting France, Switzerland, and Germany, the Rays got a wide variety of cultural experiences, from visiting Paris the month before the Olympic games to walking through the Dachau concentration camp, a sad and moving yet incredibly important experience. MIA teacher Mrs. Lori Galiana has brought the Rays on six trips, alongside Señor Fernando Higuera, Mrs. Mariah Walther, and Mr. Kyle Ginther. “These trips are not just for travel but to be exposed to different cultures and languages, and to teach independence and to learn history and geography. Travel opens your minds up and provides on-hand learning,”Galiana said. In the summer of 2025, the Wandering Rays will be traveling through the coasts of Barcelona, France, and Italy. The Rays can be supported through their car washes, or specific donations to sponsor a student in their extra costs. “Car washes are for donations and we can wash cars, RV's, boats, and even firetrucks,” said Galiana.“We do the car washes so students all know each other before the trip so we can have an easier transition for rooming and being comfortable in general. Last year we raised $23,000 and this year our goal is $25,000 as we have a bit of a larger group and a couple of extra sweet excursions. If anyone would like to sponsor a student for any of the following, it is meals for $350, $135 for the excursions and $832 for the whole group's t-shirts. Checks can be made out to MIA, a 501c3 so tax deductible.”

Car washes are held once every month at the parking lot outside of Kretch’s – 527 Bald Eagle Dr–from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Future Car Wash Dates are November 16,December 14,January 18,February 8,March1 and April 12