This week, staff writer Laura Rysz talks with Barbara Pliske about an upcoming pasta dinner raising money for the Infant Care Program at Covenant Presbyterian Church .
- Residence: Scott Twp.
- Educational background: Bachelor’s degree in education from Marywood University and a master’s degree in education in early childhood education leadership from Keystone College
- Title: Director of the infant care program at Covenant Presbyterian Church, Scranton
Q: Tell us more about the Infant Care Program.
A: Our mission is to provide high-quality, affordable childcare and support for families with children under kindergarten age. We opened our doors in May 2001. We strive to provide not only quality child care for working families but also the support and resources these families need to help balance home and work.
Q: What is on the menu for the fundraiser?
A: Pasta, meatballs, salad, rolls, drinks and dessert. The homemade meatballs are delicious.
Q: What else will be on hand at the event?
A: There also will be a basket raffle. This is very popular, and we are always amazed at the wonderful baskets that are donated for the raffle. There will be program information available and artwork and centerpieces made by the children.
Q: How will proceeds be used?
A: All money raised goes right back into the program. Since we are such a small nonprofit childcare center, most of our expenses are operating costs. Fundraisers such as this pasta dinner are so important to the continuation of quality programming. We set annual goals to help create and implement good policies. Our fundraisers help us meet these goals. Successful fundraising not only helps increase revenue but also brings the community, the church and our program together.
If you go
- What: Pasta dinner
- When: Sunday, Sept. 22, noon to 3 p.m.
- Where: Covenant Presbyterian Church, 550 Madison Ave., Scranton
- Details: Guests can dine in or take out meals. Tickets cost $12 for adults, $8 for children 3 to 10 and and are free for ages 2 and younger. Proceeds benefit the church’s Infant Care Program. For more information, call 570-348-0531 or email infantcareprogram@gmail.com.
Laura Rysz is the features copy editor and calendar editor at The Times-Tribune and runs the Talk of the Times column, which focuses on local fundraisers and other events. She also writes Chef’s Table that profiles restaurants around the region. Additionally, Laura curates events online on AccessNEPA.com. Laura is involved in the special Mother’s Day edition and curates occasional features Marry Memories and Times Travelers. She is a graduate of Haddonfield Memorial High School, New Jersey, and earned an English professional writing degree with a minor in mass communications from King’s College, Wilkes-Barre. She also earned a certificate in Social Media Marketing from Rutgers Business School. Contact: lrysz@timesshamrock.com; 570-348-9100 x5228.