This year’s Lake Washington Schools Foundation’s benefit luncheon is set for March 27 at the Seattle Marriott Redmond.

The event, Bridge the Gap, will run from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and feature stories from a variety of community members who have found ways to give back — from the dedicated volunteers who work directly with students in LWSF-funded programs, to donors who have leveraged personal connections and social media to gather support beyond their own individual means.

“There are gaps between what students have and what they need to succeed. At this event, we’re sharing stories of people who are bridging the gaps with the help of the foundation,” said LWSF executive director Larry Wright.

One of those individuals is Mary Pat O’Neil, who donates her time through LWSF giving free college planning workshops.

“I love hearing people’s stories and helping them,” she said.

LWSF will also welcome Washington state Lt. Gov. Cyrus Habib as keynote speaker as well as KOMO News meteorologist and Redmond High School graduate Shannon O’Donnell, who joins Juanita High School student Grace Harrington to co-host the annual event.