I’d like to take a moment to tell you about an organization that continues to make a lasting impact on our community: the Harrison Township Parent Teacher Association (PTA).
For more than 20 years, the PTA has stood at the heart of our elementary schools by connecting families, supporting teachers, and enriching the educational experience for elementary students in our township. The PTA’s mission is to enhance and maximize the education, health and well-being of every child while helping them reach their fullest potential.
Through teamwork between parents, teachers and the broader community, the PTA creates opportunities for learning, engagement and connection that extend far beyond the classroom.
Each year, the PTA organizes programs and activities that directly benefit students and staff throughout our elementary schools. From in-school assemblies and book fairs to family-friendly events and teacher appreciation initiatives, their efforts touch nearly every corner of school life.
Families can look forward to beloved annual traditions like fall fun night, Valentine’s Bingo, mother/son night at the Phillies and the father/daughter dance. The PTA will also host its ever-popular designer bag Bingo fundraiser in the spring, alongside community-minded initiatives such as a coat drive and teacher appreciation week.
This year, the PTA is also focused on strengthening community engagement, expanding opportunities for student enrichment and ensuring that teachers and classrooms have the resources they need to thrive. These initiatives are designed not only to support academic growth, but also to nurture social, emotional and creative development.
The PTA’s theme for the 2025/’26 school year is “It Takes a Village.” It’s a reminder that every act of involvement – large or small – matters. Whether coordinating an event; helping to set up a book fair; or lending a hand for an hour, each volunteer makes a meaningful impact.
PTA President Stephanie Brunstrom told me, “We truly believe that it takes a village,” echoing the theme. “Every family, teacher, and neighbor can play a part in helping our children thrive. When we work together, we create a stronger, more supportive learning environment for our students.”
Community members can support the PTA by participating in fundraising events, offering sponsorships or donating supplies and raffle items. You can also give effortlessly through the Shop to Give program. Simply make everyday purchases from participating retailers on the Givebacks platform, and a portion of each sale will go directly to the PTA at no extra cost to you. Learn More on givebacks.com.
Families of elementary-school children play an essential role in the PTA. Lending their support begins with joining or renewing membership, volunteering, attending activities and sharing expertise and talents. Each act of participation helps strengthen the programs and resources that allow the PTA to successfully serve our students and teachers. Join or renew your membership on givebacks.com.
“Volunteers are the heartbeat of the PTA,” shared Lauren Walter, vice president of fundraising. “No matter how much time someone can give, every bit of support adds up to something meaningful.”
Thank you to this year’s PTA volunteer leadership:
- President: Stephanie Brunstrom
- Vice president: Danielle Hart
- Secretary: Karen Golden
- Treasurer: Desiree Adams
- Vice president of communications: Joelle Reyes
- Vice president of fundraising: Lauren Walter, laurenrosewalter@gmail.com
- Vice president of student programs: Allison Hambrecht, allison.hambrecht@yahoo.com
- Vice president of student events: Laura Mancini, mancinifam5@gmail.com
If you’re interested in joining, volunteering, supporting fundraising efforts, or simply learning more about the PTA, you can reach out to Walter, Hambrecht or Mancini at their contact information above. Stay connected with the latest events, initiatives and opportunities to get involved by following the PTA on Facebook.
Only through member engagement, the energy of its volunteers, the support of the community and the dedication of its leadership can the Harrison Township PTA truly embody the spirit of “It Takes a Village.”
Please join me in supporting this special organization that plays a vital role in making Harrison Township such a special place to live and raise your family.
