D-PAN has been given a phenomenal opportunity to gain the vital funding we need to expand and enhance essential programs and opportunities for deaf and hard of hearing professionals.

We call it The $100,000 (plus) Challenge. Here is how it works — and why your support is critical to get us to our goal.

Thanks to the generosity of a benefactor who wishes to remain anonymous, D-PAN  will be awarded $100,000 in unrestricted funding - money to fund scholarships, create new programs, produce new media, and accomplish great things for the deaf and hard of hearing community. But there's a catch….

In order to earn the $100,000, we have to raise that same amount by December 21, 2009.

And then there's the "Plus" part. Our benefactor has agreed to match any funds raised exceeding $100,000 at a rate of fifty cents to every dollar. So if we raise $150,000 by December 21st, we will receive $125,000 from our benefactor – that means $275,000 to support our constituents. An amazing offer, and an amazing opportunity - but we need your help.

If you want to invest in an organization that is dedicated to education, diversity, professional development, employment for the deaf and hard of hearing community and which will be an exceptional and accountable steward of your funds, the organization is D-PAN and the time is now.