Thomas Jefferson Independent Day School (TJ) invites local community members, TJ alumni, parents, grandparents, and friends to their spring fundraising event “ESCAPADE: Party-Gras!” on Saturday, March 8 at 5:30 p.m. at 211 S. Main Street in Downtown Joplin.  

“ESCAPADE: Party-Gras!” will transport guests to the sights and sounds of Bourbon Street with live jazz music by Jomo Jazz, drinks by Tropicana Bar & Grill, New Orleans-inspired appetizers and a plated dinner by Crabbys Seafood Bar & Grill, a live and silent auction, a DJ dance party, and more! The event is a community celebration and raises funds to support TJ and its Mission. 

As a Pre-K through 12th grade independent school, TJ doesn’t receive government or state funding and is supported by tuition and philanthropy. Since the event’s inception in 1998, Escapade has provided a bridge to access critical funds to support the school and educational opportunities for students who represent a sample of the Four-States community. Previous Escapade events have provided TJ with a new school bus, 12-passenger van, 3D printer, computer lab enhancements, weight room renovations, digital recording equipment, tennis court resurfacing, a faculty professional development fund, and much more. 

Local community members are invited to participate in this impactful event in a variety of ways: 

1. Purchase a ticket. 

We have planned an eventful evening with delicious food, a DJ, dancing, live and silent auctions, and more surprises. You won’t want to miss it! RSVP by purchasing your tickets online at https://escapade.betterworld.org/events/escapade by Monday, Feb. 24, to secure your spot at the ESCAPADE: Party-Gras! 

2. Become an Escapade sponsor or underwrite the event. 

Our sponsorship and underwriting opportunities will provide you, or your business, with different benefits at each tier. Sponsorships and underwriting opportunities can be reserved online at https://escapade.betterworld.org/events/escapade by Monday, Feb. 24. 

 3. Donate an item or service to the silent or live auction. 

To donate to the live or silent auctions, contact TJ at [email protected] or call 417- 781-5124. All live and silent auction donations must be made by Wednesday, Feb. 19. 

“We are so grateful for the longstanding support of our community and invite you to join us for this year’s Escapade event in a way that is meaningful to you. Your contribution to Escapade, whether through attendance, sponsorship, or item donation, demonstrates the power of what is possible when a community bands together. Supporting community educational opportunities is a cause worthy of celebration!” said Lauden Baker, Director of Development & Alumni Engagement at TJ. 

For more information, please contact Lauden Baker, Director of Development & Alumni Engagement, at [email protected] or by calling (417) 781-5124.