About The Gifted Child Society (TGCS)

The Gifted Child Society (TGCS©) is an educational 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to furthering the overall well-being of gifted children, from preschool through high school. Since its inception in 1957, TGCS has served 70,000+ gifted children – and counting – throughout New Jersey and its surrounding areas.

TGCS Mission

TGCS Mission is to encourage and further the overall well-being of gifted children, through each stage of their development, and to provide them with the inspiration and means by which they will achieve their full potential.

History of TGCS

TGCS was founded by Mrs. L.J.A. Stiles and a group of 25 parents in New Jersey, in 1957. TGCS founding parents wanted to form a club to promote the interests and talents of gifted children. The club’s first meeting was held at City Hall in Dumont, New Jersey in October, 1957. On June 1, 1958, Mrs. Stiles was elected TGCS’ first president.

The first classes hosted by TGCS - which eventually evolved into TGCS The Saturday Workshop^© - were small and held twice a year. The first summer program was established in 1962 at the Central Unitarian Church in Paramus, New Jersey.

TGCS quickly grew in membership and in 1962 was formally incorporated as an educational 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. By 1965, 250 children were enrolled in The Saturday Workshop. TGCS continued to expand, adding its first information sessions for parents in 1966.

TGCS has grown significantly since its inception - 70,000 gifted children and counting - and TGCS Membership continues to grow each year.