‘Share the Love’ program reaches $1 million milestone for Renton schools

The Walker’s Renton Subaru annual Share the Love event benefits Renton Schools Foundation.

The Renton Schools Foundation has reached a milestone of $1 million in total donations over the years through a program that benefits teacher grants, STEM, literary programs, music programs, arts programs and more.

Raised through Walker’s Renton Subaru’s annual Share the Love event, where hundreds of Subaru customers donated $250 of a new car lease or purchase along with personal donations from Dale Walker, the $1 million was a major milestone — as Walker’s had previously raised $73,000 in June 2024 and over $70,000 in May 2023. Last year, Walker’s was able to donate a total of $983,500.

“This has been an amazing partnership with Dale Walker and his team at Walker’s Renton Subaru,” said Pam Teal, chair of the Renton Schools Foundation. “Since the foundation’s inception, Dale has shown great leadership and personal commitment to ensuring our teachers, students, and support staff have what they need to make Renton School District’s education system meaningful, inclusive, and successful.”

Every school in the Renton School District is set to benefit from the major donation, which will also be used to fund summer STEM camps and help support students and their families.

“We’re blessed to have many engaged partners in the Renton School District,” said Superintendent Dr. Damien Pattenaude. “But Dale Walker’s commitment to every student, educator, and family member in this district stands out as exceptional. The family at Walker’s automotive group, and Dale’s personal dedication, is something not often witnessed. Our entire district is so thankful for Dale’s vision and commitment.”