Q: What does the Gala raise money for?
A: Tuition payments cover only a portion of our school's budget. To meet our full financial needs, we rely on a generous parish subsidy, donations, and fundraising efforts. The Winter Gala serves as the primary fundraising event for our school. Proceeds from the auctions directly support our school community, enhancing education, safety, and security for students and staff. Funds raised help cover expenses such as field trips, textbooks, playground equipment, professional development, technology maintenance, building security, religious education, and essential classroom supplies.
Q: Why do families need to donate cash or a gala gift or item?
A: The silent and live auctions are the main fundraising opportunities during the Gala, and their success depends on the variety and quality of items available. Typically, there are over 300 silent auction items and more than 10 live auction items (vacations, experiences, sports memorabilia). The more items we have, the more funds we can raise to support our school. Donations, whether cash or auction items, directly contribute to making the Gala a success. Here are some photos from previous years before the silent auction went fully mobile!
Q: How can school families get involved in the Gala?
A: Although the Gala is a one-day event in February, there are many ways to get involved beforehand!
- Donate for the auction: All families are asked to donate an item valued at $50 or more by December 1. There will be class competitions and drawings throughout the fall.
- Sell raffle tickets: You can sell these to family and friends in December and January as another opportunity to support the school. The winning raffle ticket wins up to $5000 and is drawn the night of the gala.
- Volunteer: We need volunteers to help prepare for the Gala, set up on the day, and assist during the event. Please email us a gala@popolathe.org for more info.
- Attend the gift gathering party and Gala: These adults-only events are great opportunities to have fun, meet others in the school community, and support a fantastic cause.
Q: How do the kids get involved with the gala?
A: There are always class competitions and prizes to encourage participation in donations and raffle ticket sales. You will hear more details on this from the school!
Q: If we purchase gala tickets, what does that include?
A: Tickets are sold in advance and include appetizers, dinner, dessert, drinks, access to the silent and live auctions, and a chance to enjoy a great evening of community fellowship. Tickets are sold individually, but you can request to sit with a group at an 8-person table. Each year, the Gala has a unique theme that influences the attire for the event!
Your support of the school goes far beyond just raising funds; it represents a deep commitment to our students, our teachers, and our mission of providing a nurturing, faith-filled environment where children can thrive. Every donation, every volunteer hour, and every bid placed during the Gala helps enrich our children's education, enhance their experiences, and build a stronger, more connected community. We are incredibly grateful for your generosity, which allows us to continue to grow and learn. Together, we make a difference in the lives of students, and for that, we thank you!