2026 Making A Difference

For those new to the Eastside Catholic School Community or as a first-time attendee to our STARS Gala, the "raise the paddle" moment at each year's auction asks guests and supporters to make a cash contribution to fund a significant need at the school. Gifts range from $100 to $100,000 and anywhere in between!

We call this "Making A Difference"

Growing the Pope Francis Endowment
Supporting the Options Program
 
From the moment Eastside Catholic opened its doors, support for diverse learners has been at the heart of EC. The Pope Francis Endowment provides lasting support for these students. 
 
This evening, we want to highlight the Options Program, which provides personalized academic support and life-skills development for high school students with special needs. The Options Program has always been more than an initiative… more than a classroom… more than a program. It is a pillar of our school—a declaration that every student, every learner belongs.
 
Rooted in our Catholic mission and the spirit that makes Eastside Catholic unique, this year’s Making a Difference (MAD) initiative will support the Options Program. Gifts to MAD 2026 will help grow the Pope Francis Endowment, creating enduring support for this vital work.
 
Why It Matters
 
This effort is about more than raising funds; it’s about building a more inclusive future for every student who walks our halls.
 
Your support helps provide: 
•    Access to Catholic education for diverse learners
•    Individualized instruction aligned with EC’s standard of excellence
•    Peer tutor experiences that build leadership and empathy
•    Meaningful inclusion across our school community
•    Resources that help every learner thrive
•    Focused resources and outreach to families of diverse leaners seeking a Catholic high school experience
 
Most importantly, you are investing in the kind of world we want our children to inherit.
 
The ripple effect of this program touches every student, strengthening the Eastside Catholic community through compassion and belonging. To illustrate this impact, please reflect on these words from Peer Tutor Haylee Hunt, or read her full college essay which is reprinted below.
 
“Their presence in my life reminds me of what it means to love others and to truly live an authentic life in joy.”
- Haylee Hunt, EC Senior and Options Program Peer Tutor

Our Goal Is to Raise $250,000
 
You can double your impact through your company’s matching gift program—many employers match donations at 100% or more. Check with your benefits administrator to see if your gift qualifies. 
 
Eastside Catholic is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and receives no state or local tax funding, making your contribution even more vital.