November, with its accent on bountiful generosity, has two high-profile dates designed to spark a charitable spirit: National Philanthropy Day (Nov. 15) and Giving Tuesday (Nov. 30).

Both of these designated days are reminders, especially against the backdrop of COVID-19, about how deeply nonprofits nationwide rely on public support.

One such organization right here in Montgomery County is Center School in Abington.

Center School’s mission is to provide students who have language-based learning differences such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, ADHD, visual and auditory processing disorders, and executive function disorders with a personalized education. 

They do so by crafting individual education plans for each student, tailoring instruction and services to meet specific needs.

The atmosphere within the halls of the school is palatably upbeat.

Spoken and unspoken messaging is never, “You can’t do that.”

It’s “You can’t do that… yet.”

It reframes the way students think about their challenges and strengths, sending a clear message to students and their families that learning and achieving success are possible.

They can succeed.

They will succeed.

The Gift of Education

Center School hosts numerous events to fund additional support and resources to its students and families. These events not only support Center School students, but they also help to build connections with the community. 

Community members are welcome to visit their campus (prearranged, please, with COVID-19 precautions in place), have a tour, meet the staff, and observe the students and educators in action.

The school’s administrators hope that once potential donors see the return on investment a gift has, they will consider supporting Center School through its annual appeal or during a fundraising event. 

Perfect Opportunity

November 6 provides an excellent opportunity to support Center school during their annual designer-bag bingo event. The event starts at 5:30 pm, and tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite.  

This BYOB event is priced reasonably for a night out:

• $224 for a table of eight
  • No children, please
  • Advance purchases only
  • This price point saves $2 per ticket
• $30 per person for tickets purchased in advance
• $35 per person at the door (if available)

You are welcome to bring your own food, drink, and good luck charms.

Raffle baskets and a 50/50 will provide additional opportunities to come out a winner.

Other Means of Help

If you are unable to attend the designer-bag bingo night but still want to support Center School, there are numerous ways to contribute:

• Via its Facebook page
• Directly on its website
• In-person at the beautiful Abington campus

Center School is also equipped to accept Earned Income Tax Credit and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit Program donations. 

All proceeds enable Center School to continue delivering specialized education and instruction to its students.

More information about supporting Center School, including on National Philanthropy Day and Giving Tuesday, can be found online.