Photos: BLOCS Gala Celebrates Catholic Education
BLOCS (Business Leadership Organized for Catholic Schools), the largest scholarship organization in Pa., for prek-12, hosted its 2024 Gala: Lighting Up the Future on May 9, 2024, , at the Crystal Tea Room (100 E Penn Sq.).
A highlight of the evening was the announcement of the BLOCS Teacher of the Year Award, sponsored by FlynnO’Hara Uniforms. Mr. Shane Taylor from Archbishop Ryan Catholic High School was named the 2024 BLOCS Teacher of the Year. Taylor was nominated by Kyla
Carberry, a freshman at Ryan, who is visually impaired. His remarkable impact goes beyond the curriculum as he is credited with empowering students like Kyla to conquer challenges with a blend of support, laughter, and generosity. Taylor teaches math and is a 2015 graduate of Archbishop Ryan.
Viewed as the premiere scholarship organization in PA, BLOCS partners with more than 100 Archdiocesan and more than 300 private Catholic and non-Catholic schools to provide over 17,000 need-based scholarships each year.
Legendary college basketball coach and champion of Catholic education Phil Martelli emceed the gala, guiding guests through a program filled with inspiration and celebration – his involvement emphasizing the importance of teamwork in achieving educational excellence.
“Through our donors, BLOCS is dedicated to raising over $100 million annually in funding because we believe that every child, regardless of financial constraints, deserves a future filled with promise and opportunity,” said Matt McFillin, BLOCS Board Chair. “Our gala celebrates Catholic education and continues to light the future for students and families in the Philadelphia region.”
A lively crowd of more than 300 guests, including dedicated donors, board members, and fervent supporters, gathered to champion BLOCS’ cause. BLOCS donors use their PA tax liability to fund scholarships and receive a 90% tax credit. This is through the establishment of Educational
Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) and Opportunity Scholarship Tax Credit (OSTC) programs.
BLOCS just launched a user-friendly tax credit calculator, simplifying the process for potential
donors to estimate their contribution under the PA Tax Credit program. Those pledging a
minimum yearly donation exceeding $3,000 are eligible to enroll. To join the ranks of BLOCS donors and make a difference in a student’s life, go to
BLOCS.org/taxcredit and a BLOCS rep will respond.
