All parents want the best for their children and low-income parents and parents of children with special needs are no different. Historically, young children from low-income families and those with special needs do not receive the early education needed for optimal performance. Many early childhood centers do not accept children whose needs require additional staff and/or training. Consequently, families are forced to either find a lower quality center in which learning becomes secondary or keep their children at home.
Dallas Services strives to provide an inclusive and diverse early childhood education so that children with developmental and/or financial challenges can achieve their potential as well as develop a greater understanding of and sensitivity to each other. Through Dallas Day School, we provide children from low income families and children with special needs with the early education they need to succeed. Providing children with the tools and experiences necessary for optimal learning goes to the heart of our mission. Without these opportunities, children enter kindergarten behind their peers and, very often, fail to achieve their potential.
Earlier this year I was honored to be elected to the Dallas Services Board of Directors. I have been blessed to see the work being done, the passion of the staff and teachers, and the sincerity of all in promoting the education and wellness of those in the community. But these programs cost money; some from grants, some from donations, and some from fundraisers.
On September 23, 2011, Dallas Services and the Parent and Family Council will hold the sixth annual Fall Fest Auction at The Tower Club to raise much needed funds for scholarships for low income and special needs children, capital improvements and operations for Dallas Day School (DDS). Over the last five years, we have raised over $71,000 for DDS. All of this money has directly helped our children achieve their potential. We ask you to consider a donation of a goods or services for the auction.
I have a list of gift basket ideas if you would like to donate items towards a basket, or you can create your own basket for donation! We would also love to have any items or services your business or organization could provide. This could be tickets to an event, a photography shoot, or an eye exam and glasses! The possibilities are endless. Table sponsorships are also available for a nominal amount and include tickets, business or name recognitions, and casino cash for the casino night.
We are expecting over 200 professional men and women to attend and participate in the auction. Your donation is tax deductible to the extent of the law and will be acknowledged in the following ways: (1) recognition in the Fall Fest program, (2) display any programs or flyers along with your donation at the event and (3) recognition on the Dallas Services website.
Dallas Services, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was founded in 1949. Current programs include DDS, the Low Vision Clinic and Mesquite Day School. Please contact Nicole Sanders at nsanders@ dallasservices.org or 214-828-9900 if you need any further information or to discuss the possibility of an auction item donation. You are also welcome to contact me as well if you are more comfortable. Thank you and please support our children so they can achieve their potential.
