OPENING DOORS TO LEARNING

Luncheon gets bookish about literacy - pocketbookish, too

Kappa Kappa Gamma is angling to be a key advocate when it comes to “Opening Doors to Literacy.” Already the local chapter has held its second annual luncheon by that name at the Country Club of Little Rock with 175 in attendance.

Money raised at the March 6 luncheon helps finance Literacy Action of Central Arkansas. Neil Jones, director of the literacy program, says its purpose is to build a community of adults empowered through literacy, and it focuses on making sure its students have the skills to find jobs, make literacy a focal point at home and are equipped to navigate the health-care system. Jones said that the mostly volunteer organization helps about 250 students a year in central Arkansas.

Tables for the book themed luncheon were decorated with arrangements of flowers, books and keys. Instead of a silent auction, guests had the chance to buy a used book with a bookmark inside indicating which prize they had won. Prizes ranged from gift cards and jewelry to new books.

The program included presentations by three authors, who stayed after the luncheon to greet guests and sign books. They were Susan Gregg Gilmore, Jay Jennings and Elaine Neil Orr.

Co-chairmen of the fundraising luncheon were Marsha Allbritton and Cathy Schwartz. Kristen Kaufman was master of ceremonies and $11,500 was raised for Literacy Action of Central Arkansas.

High Profile, Pages 46 on 03/16/2014

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