Today, as Leah mentioned, is North Texas Giving Day. Yesterday we talked about some home-related organizations taking part and today I’d like to highlight some ways you can contribute to the educations of area children. There are more than 1,100 opportunities to help North Texas scholars, but these are some great charities and schools that impact Dallas students every day.
First, Project Transformation – which provides mentorship and tutoring (as well as a safe place for kids to go after school) throughout Dallas and beyond. Donations of $25 and above qualify for bonus funds.
Stand for Children-Dallas is leading a Home Visit Project in 50 Dallas ISD schools with over 525 teachers and staff members participating, including my kiddo’s school (we had a home visit from his kindergarten teacher last night). Every $25 helps pay for another home visit. These home visits are designed to be positive visits that give the child’s teacher and parents a chance to talk one-on-one about their shared goals for the child.
And then there is Reading Partners. I will be starting my second year of tutoring with this organization soon, and I have personally watched children start out not loving reading, behind at least a grade level (often more) in reading – but by the end of the year, demanding book recommendations and reading confidently with their peers. The statistics regarding reading at grade level by third grade are alarming – but your $25 can help train more people like me (and you, ahem), as well as buy books and supplies.
The Dallas Education Foundation, the independent fundraising organization for Dallas ISD, is raising funds for “Backpack for Books” – which will serve 600 pre-K classrooms with two backpacks filled with reading materials that families can use to work with their children at home. Each student will have the chance to take home a backpack twice during the school year.
The Concilio works to increase parent involvement in their children’s education through their PASE program, which teaches parents how to become more actively engaged in their child’s education. The group also frequently addresses community health issues as well.
And check your local schools – some also have fundraising going today through their independent fundraising groups (for instance, Thomas Jefferson High and Booker T. Washington). Is your school raising money through North Texas Giving Day today? Post a link in the comments!
