Allentown, Allentown, High School, Monmouth County, Special Events

Allentown High School 1980’s Alumni Group Hosts Fundraiser To Benefit Academic And Athletic Student Programs

April 24, 2023

ALLENTOWN, NJ (MONMOUTH)–Allentown High School Alumni [non-profit] group is hosting a fundraiser to benefit AHS student academic and athletic programs. On May 19, 2023, AHS alum and founder of the AHS 1980s Alumni group Scott Trethaway, will serve a day in In-House suspension to raise money for the students of the beloved alma mater. 35 years ago, Trethaway was “sentenced” to a day of suspension for a practical joke he pulled on the day of graduation. He never served his time. Trethaway will “turn himself in” to the Allentown High School Administration and the alumni group hopes the community will join them in raising his “bail” money. Superintendent of Schools Mr. Mark Guterl has noted this is first time in the high school’s history that an alumni group has supported the students in this way.  100% of the donations will support AHS student programs. 

The AHS 1980s non-profit group was formed 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 last October during 2022 Homecoming. This induction was especially significant because the Allentown football program was almost terminated in the late 1980s. Because of the tenacity, school spirit and passion of the student body, the football program was saved. Fast forward to 2016. Allentown High School won its first sectional football championship in the Central Jersey Group IV finals.  Today, the AHS football program is holding their own in the overall standing.

The AHS 1980s Alumni group has grown to well over 800 members with the focus of reconnecting and reminiscing. Many of the friendships stemmed from participating in academic and athletic programs.  With a mission to give back, this group is hoping to demonstrate to the current AHS students that their programs and the friendships that grow from them can last a lifetime.  “These programs matter and so do the students.” says Trethaway. “If we can encourage and support both that’s what we want to do.”

Donations can be made through Venmo, @Redbirds4EverAlumni or PayPal.ME/AHSalumni4ever