For the 34th year, Notre Dame School proudly hosted "An Affair of the Heart - It's a Wonderful Life".  This year's theme was chosen by Notre Dame School parent and event chair, Karen Motes.  "Raising a child with special needs truly makes life wonderful!  We wanted to demonstrate to our guests that even  though parenting and teaching children with developmental disabilities can be daunting at times, these children love more deeply and unconditionally, making day-to-day life a true pleasure.  And having a partner like Notre Dame School in your corner makes a huge difference in the life of the child and their future."

Honorary Chairs of the event were the Walter S. Henrion family whom have supported Notre Dame School for many years.  The event was held in the Grand Ballroom of the Renaissance Dallas Hotel.  Emcee of the evening was Colleen Coyle, meteorologist at WFAA, Channel 8. 

The evening began with a silent auction sponsored by retailer, Tuesday Morning.  As guests enjoyed cocktails, they had the opportunity to shop early for the holidays.  Over 50 students from Notre Dame School entertained guests with two songs, followed by a seated dinner.  Auctioneer Mike Jones led the live auction. Guests danced to the band, Captain & Camille, and the evening ended with a casino in the beautiful foyer of the Grand Ballroom.

Proceeds from An Affair of the Heart support the operating budget of the school.  Families of children with special needs have a lifetime financial burden.  These children do not become affluent alumni which give back to their alma mater, therefore Notre Dame School relies on the generosity of the Dallas community and generous donors to financially support the school.  Every student at Notre Dame School receives a discount on tuition, and one-third of the students receive additional financial aid. 

Notre Dame School educates students with developmental disabilities and facilitates their integration into society.  As the only school in Dallas exclusively serving this student population, Notre Dame is a unique educational resource in our city and provides special education to 150 students ages 8 to 21.  Notre Dame School is a Catholic school and is sponsored by the School Sisters of Notre Dame. It is located in Uptown, just north of downtown Dallas.  www.notredameschool.org