In 1999 while talking to a friend about her kids at Bates academy FOBA founder Thom Pride, was stunned to find out that parents at the school for the gifted and talented had to take the children to the public library to get resources to finish school projects. He felt that Bates should have if not the best at least an adequate library along with other resources to assist students with their work. Mr. Pride enlisted the company of several prominent business leaders which included one Bates parent Robert Hawkins to form the Friends of Bates Academy. In addition to Mr. Pride, a notable non Bates parent, Mr. Samuel Willis CPA, was instrumental in the formation of the group and is the current Financial Secretary; In the early days breakfast meetings were held once a week at the Pontchartrain Hotel to discuss the best way to assist the school and to what degree the schools administration and living name sake would be involved. After several weeks a decision was made to form a non-profit that would be designed to assist the school but be a stand alone organization to avoid red tape and bureaucracy from the school system and Bates Academy.
Early supporters included Kent Rayford, The bag Ladies Golf team, a major financial donor was Wayne Wheeler of the Data Consulting Group. Early members included Bates parents Christina DasGupta, Linda & Phil Lewis, Steven Perkins, Karen Barnwell and Jean-Vierre Adams who were very instrumental in attracting new members and assisting with events. FOBA was led by Robert Hawkins who served as President for its first eight years and now serves as Chairman of the Board and President Emeritus. The current president Maria Smith is leading FOBA into its next chapter of history.
FOBA originally held two fundraisers per school year, a spring golf outing and a holiday back to school dinner dance/reception. Sponsorship of these events comes from participants and corporate sponsors, including but not limited to Henry Ford Hospital , The Detroit Medical Center, Comerica Bank, First Independence Bank, Greektown Casino, MGM Casino, Sugar 'n Spice Nursery, Data Consulting Group and Motor City Casino. Donations to theschool and students remain a hallmark goal for the members of FOBA. Over the years FOBA has been very generous in donation to Bates Academy following the mission statement of the organization; Developing and fostering fundraising and other programs to help acquire the tools necessary for the academic success of Bates students. In addition to financial resources positively raising the awareness level of the school to the public has also been a goal through positive public exposure.
