May 2025

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What a joyful and inspiring season it has been at John Paul II Center!

Dear JPII Family,


I am absolutely thrilled to share that our Legacy Gala was a tremendous success, and thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our supporters, our Fund-a-Need (for our upcoming cafe program) total reached an all-time high. This outpouring of love and support will directly impact the lives of our students and adult participants, allowing us to continue offering the exceptional services that make JPII such a special place. From the bottom of my heart—thank you. Your belief in our mission sustains us, strengthens us, and reminds us that we are never alone in this work.


We were also incredibly grateful to Berks Catholic High School for hosting a Fun Day for our students! Our students had a blast enjoying outdoor activities, making new friends, and simply celebrating a beautiful day of inclusion, joy, and community. The laughter, smiles, and sunshine were the perfect reminders of the beauty in everyday moments.


As we wind down the school year, excitement is building as we prepare to celebrate the graduation of three outstanding students - Alex, Amelia and Nathaniel. Watching their growth over the years has been a gift, and we are eager to send them off with love, confidence, and hope for the amazing paths that lie ahead.


Our Adult Program participants are also soaking up the sunshine as they get out into the community more often with the warmer weather. From volunteer opportunities to social outings, our adults are engaging with the world around them in meaningful, enriching ways that continue to foster independence and connection.


Thank you for walking alongside us through every season. We are so grateful for your continued prayers, partnership, and support as we finish another remarkable year at JPII.


With gratitude,

Kaylee Simcik

Principal, John Paul II Center for Special Learning

JPII Legacy Gala Recap

Our 2025 Legacy Gala was a fantastic success, thanks to our students and adults, attendees, volunteers, donors, staff, and community. With your help, we raised $510,000 to help further our mission of providing diversified programs to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.


Links to Gala program videos:

Save the date for next year - April 25, 2026

2025 Spring Dance

Thank you to Dr. Swift and her Alvernia University students for planning and hosting our Hollywood-themed Spring Dance. JPII students, adults and alumni enjoyed an evening of music, dancing, and food! Everyone enjoyed the star-studded event!

Berks Catholic Fun Day

We spent a sun-soaked, fun-filled day at Berks Catholic. Their students planned a day of inclusive activities - including hockey, giant jenga, dance parties, crafts, hopping on bouncy balls, kick ball games and more! We all enjoyed a picnic lunch and making new friends. We're already looking forward to next year!

Adult Program Activities

April was busy for our JPII Adult Program with therapy dog visits, helping with last-minute Legacy Gala pick errands, quiet time at the library and more!

Adult Program Employment Opportunities


Are you looking to make an impact that will truly make a difference in someone’s life? We are seeking individuals who are passionate about helping all students and adults reach their God-given potential. Work with a team whose goals are to carry out our vision and mission of supporting students and adults to success and independence. For more information on how to apply, click here.


We're hiring Adult Program Direct Support Professionals! Click on link below for informational flyer!

Help Out YOUR Way

Donation Options:

 

Set up a one-time donation or provide support on a monthly basis by setting up a recurring donation to help the students and adults at JPII.

A gift to JPII’s endowment becomes a forever gift for future generations of students and adults.

Matching Gifts


You may be able to double your gift to JPII through your employer’s corporate matching gift program. If your company offers this benefit, you may be able to maximize personal contributions and increase the impact of your gift.  

Turning Taxes into Scholarships

Enrolling NOW for 2025 tax year!

You can create a $5,000 scholarship for only 

$500 and 100% of your contribution supports 

John Paul II Center for Special Learning scholarships.


Through the Special Purpose Entity (SPE) tax credit program, individuals and businesses can receive a 90% PA tax redit while providing scholarships for JPII students. You must pay taxes regardless, so why not direct those dollars to help JPII students?


You can direct your tax dollars to help JPII students and receive a 90% tax credit!

There is an understanding that giving is both a reflection of the best parts of who we are and the key to the most important work we will accomplish as neighbors and communities.

 

John Paul II Center is able to care for and teach our incredible students and adults because of the support we receive from our community. In an effort to make giving as secure and convenient as possible, we now provide a number of ways to help fund JPII’s mission. Simply choose which form of giving suits you best. And if you need assistance, remember, we're just a phone call away.

For more information on any of these programs, contact Melissah Jablonski

Phone: 610-777-0605 - Email: mjablonski@johnpauliicenter.org

Contact Us

John Paul II Center for

Special Learning

1092 Welsh Road,

Shillington, PA 19607

610-777-0605

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