LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Mendo Mill’s annual Bucket Challenge fundraiser that supports sports programs in local public high schools raised a record $23,000 earlier this month.

The event, held Sept. 13 to 15 at all five Mendo Mill stores, nearly doubled the funds raised in 2018.

“It was a spectacular success,” said Mike Mayfield, the president of Mendo Mill and Lumber, which operates home improvement stores in Ukiah, Willits, Fort Bragg, Clearlake and Lakeport.

“Congratulations to our customers who turned out in record numbers, and to the school representatives who worked closely with our Mendo Mill staff to hit a home run,” Mayfield said.

The Bucket Challenge was started several years ago to provide additional funding for athletic programs in Mendocino and Lake County high schools.

This year it was combined with Mendo Mill's 75th anniversary celebration to provide additional visibility, energy and enthusiasm.

Customers were invited to purchase a signature 75th anniversary bucket for $5 and in turn received a 20-percent discount on everything that fit in the bucket.

Then Mendo Mill made a $15 contribution to the local schools to supplement the budget of their athletic program.

More than 1,500 customers participated in this year's event.

“It's a win-win deal,” said Mayfield. “Our customers get a super 20-percent discount, and our schools get help to support an important program.”

Mayfield predicted that the Bucket Challenge will continue to grow in future years.

“It's a unique business model that complements our profile of 'Neighbors Helping Neighbors',” he said.