Grand Junction, Colorado, saw a heartfelt gathering on September 12, 2025, when Grand Valley Power presented a $2,500 donation to Central High School. The gift honors the legacy of Patrick Kanda, a dedicated volunteer tutor who spent over 20 years helping students succeed in math before his passing earlier this year.
This act of generosity highlights the strong community ties in Mesa County, where local businesses step up to support education. Leaders from the school district joined students and staff to accept the funds, which will boost the math and tutoring program at the school.
Remembering Patrick Kanda’s Lasting Impact
Patrick Kanda was more than just a tutor. He volunteered at Central High School for decades, using his math skills to guide countless students toward better grades and brighter futures.
Friends and colleagues remember him as a generous soul who always put others first. He worked for 31 years at Grand Valley Power, where he built strong relationships and a reputation for kindness.
Kanda’s approach went beyond numbers. He brought joy to the classroom with small treats like candy, making learning fun and approachable for teens.
His death left a void in the community, but his spirit lives on through stories shared by those he helped. Many former students credit him with sparking their interest in math and building their confidence.
Details of the Donation Event
The ceremony took place at Central High School, drawing a crowd of students, teachers, and district officials. Grand Valley Power’s CEO, Tom Walch, spoke about Kanda’s deep connection to the school.
Walch described Kanda as a close friend who targeted his generosity toward young people. The $2,500 will fund resources for the tutoring program, ensuring more students get the help they need.
Attendees shared memories, painting a picture of a man who volunteered without seeking recognition. This donation keeps his mission alive by supporting the very program he championed.
School leaders plan to use the money for supplies, training, and outreach to struggling students. It aligns with broader efforts in Colorado to improve math education amid rising demands for STEM skills.
How the Gift Supports Student Success
Educators at Central High School see this donation as a game changer for their math program. Teacher Stephanie Yost noted how Kanda’s fun personality made kids excited about math.
The funds will expand tutoring sessions, buy learning tools, and perhaps even start new initiatives like after school clubs. This comes at a time when national data shows math scores dipping post pandemic.
According to recent reports from the National Center for Education Statistics, about 25 percent of high school students struggle with basic math proficiency. Donations like this help bridge that gap locally.
Here are key ways the donation will make a difference:
- Purchasing new math software and workbooks for tutors.
- Training more volunteers to follow in Kanda’s footsteps.
- Hosting events to engage parents in student learning.
- Providing incentives like small rewards to motivate kids.
These steps aim to boost participation and outcomes in the program.
Community Response and Broader Implications
The event sparked positive reactions across Grand Junction. Local residents praised Grand Valley Power for recognizing community heroes like Kanda.
This donation reflects a growing trend in Colorado, where businesses partner with schools to honor local figures. Similar efforts have popped up in nearby areas, like scholarships funded by utility companies.
For instance, earlier in 2025, other Colorado districts received grants for tutoring programs amid state wide pushes for educational equity. Experts say such acts build stronger communities and inspire future generations.
A quick look at recent similar donations in the state:
| Organization | Amount | Purpose | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Valley Power | $2,500 | Math tutoring | Grand Junction |
| Other Utility Firm | $5,000 | STEM scholarships | Denver |
| Local Business Group | $3,000 | After school programs | Colorado Springs |
This table shows how targeted giving supports education across regions.
Looking Ahead for Central High School
With this boost, Central High School aims to expand its reach. Plans include recruiting more tutors and tracking student progress to measure impact.
The school community hopes to host an annual event in Kanda’s name, keeping his memory fresh. This could encourage more volunteers to step up.
In a world where education faces many challenges, stories like this remind us of the power of local action. They show how one person’s dedication can ripple out to help many.
Share your thoughts on community donations or memories of inspiring tutors in the comments below. If this story resonates, pass it along to friends and family to spread the word about positive local efforts.
