Dear Families,

The Brownstone School, formerly known as The Growing People’s Center, was established in 1964 as a nursery school on the UWS.  The school was originally housed on West 84th Street, renting space from The Church of St. Matthew and St. Timothy.  In June, 1973, The Brownstone School lost its lease and scrambled to find an appropriate location for the 120 students that attended daily.  

 

After months of frantic searching, a run-down, but structurally sound brownstone was found, and purchased. And so, the school re-established itself with a new name (The Brownstone Learning and Day Care Center) and a new location (128 West 80th Street), but the same commitment to educating young children as before.  After three years of renovations, some debt, and a lot of red tape, the school began educating students at our current location.  At some point, The Brownstone Learning and Day Care Center abbreviated its name to The Brownstone School and has been serving the needs of our community for over 61 years.

 

During those years of struggle, generous donations supported the school, ensuring that it would be able to continue welcoming new students year after year.  The Brownstone School’s Annual Fund is a fundraising campaign, much like the one from 1973, that directly benefits your children.  The generosity of our community helps support our children through its ability to purchase necessary classroom supplies, enrichment programs such as music, yoga, and theater, and maintaining our beautiful building. 

There is no “right” amount to donate.  All gifts are appreciated and valued, and in years past they have ranged anywhere from $50 to $10,000 or more. Our goal is 100% family participation.  Additionally, your gift could be doubled. Please reach out to your employer to see if they have a matching program and will match your contribution.  If you would like your donation to be included for this calendar year tax benefit, donations must be received by December 31, 2025.

 

Warmly,

Felicia Gordon

Director

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