How does the Gala relate to the CDS United Campaign?

The CDS United Campaign is our annual fundraising campaign, our call to action, uniting every family, friend, and supporter in sustaining the excellence, belonging, and Jewish vibrancy that define CDS to ensure we continue to provide our students with the best education around. All new gifts to CDS made during the 2025-2026 CDS United Campaign will be cumulatively recognized both at the Gala and in our forthcoming Annual Report (to be published in late summer 2026).

The April 26, 2026, Gala will celebrate our school, our Gala honorees, and the CDS United Campaign’s successes to date. It will bring together our community. It will recognize our donors. It will help generate excitement and serve as a “final push” before the CDS United Campaign ends on June 30, 2026.  

Can I contribute to CDS beyond my ticket price?  Are there Gala “sponsors”?
The Gala’s $125 ticket price represents the fair market value of attending the Gala. While we are not separately soliciting Gala “sponsors,” we do encourage all of our supporters and friends, whether or not they attend the Gala, to donate to the CDS United Campaign. We will be recognizing all of our campaign donors at the Gala.

Are Gala tickets included in my CDS United Campaign donation?
Gala tickets are not included in any giving level. Tickets to the gala must be purchased separately and are based on fair market value and are not considered a donation. By separating Gala ticketing from charitable donations, CDS is better aligning its practices with IRS rules, which for example: (a) do not allow deductions for the fair market value of attending a charity gala, and (b) do not allow donor-advised funds (DAFs) to pay for entry fees to galas. Please contact your own tax advisor for specific tax advice. If you have any questions about your gift to CDS this year, please contact Casey Weiss.

Can anyone go to the Gala if they purchase tickets? Do they need to also give to the CDS United Campaign?
Yes, the Gala is open to our entire community. A community member may attend the Gala without donating to the CDS United Campaign. 

I want to support the school, but cannot attend the Gala.  How can I help?
A donation to the CDS United Campaign allows us to fulfill our mission of raising proud Jews, confident leaders, and accomplished learners who strive for excellence and prioritize community. 

What can I expect at the Gala?
The community will come together in celebration. Guests will be welcomed with drinks and hors d'oeuvres. After mixing and mingling, we will move into the large sanctuary for a short presentation highlighting our honorees. Dinner and dancing will follow. We are proud to feature food from The Forge, overseen by the Vaad Harabanim of Pittsburgh.  

What does the “Spring Cocktail” dress attire mean?
Spring cocktail dress attire is a fresh take on classic cocktail attire. It is elegant yet light and playful, with bright colors, airy fabrics, and cheerful patterns perfect for the season. This is only a suggestion; it is not a costume party. 

Where can I park?
We will have valet parking and street parking available.