SPARK! Dallas, an educational nonprofit organization, has announced plans for SPARKtacular, a fundraising event scheduled for Thursday, September 10. The gathering will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at a private residence in Dallas. The event is restricted to adults aged 21 and older and will include live music, handcrafted cocktails, and dining options.
The primary goal of the fundraiser is to support scholarships for students attending Title 1 schools. Event co-chairs Kristi and Ron Hoyl, along with Melissa Sherrill and Ross Martin, are leading the effort. The organizers stated that the funds raised will help provide access to the organization's creative environment for students who might otherwise lack such opportunities.
Meg Bittner, president and CEO of SPARK!, emphasized the importance of creativity in education. She noted that the organization works with schools to promote learning through STEAM education in a creative setting. Bittner invited the community to support the organization's mission to foster original thought and critical thinking skills among future leaders.
Melissa Sherrill highlighted SPARK! as a dynamic nonprofit serving students and educators. She explained that the organization provides a pathway to success through art education and STEAM programs. Sherrill urged attendees to help support these efforts through the upcoming event.
Kristi Hoyl added that the scholarships are intended for well-deserving students from Title 1 schools. She suggested that the next generation of artists, architects, or engineers could be among those supported by the fundraising campaign.
During the 2025-2026 school year, SPARK! hosted field trips for nearly 7,000 students across 105 schools and organizations. More than 51% of these students came from Title 1 schools. Additionally, nearly 40% of open play admissions were for Museums for All attendees, who receive reduced admission due to government benefits such as SNAP, WIC, and Medicaid.
