Read-A-Palooza 2017 celebrates 30 years of reading

by EventsRead-a-PaloozaSocial Media

It seems like everyone is talking about “The Greatest Generation” and “Generation Y” and “Gen X” lately. But Read Aloud West Virginia is celebrating Generation Read Aloud!

This year marks the 30th anniversary of Read Aloud — 30 years of comprehensive, research-based and practice-proven programming throughout West Virginia.  You can help commemorate this special anniversary by attending Read-A-Palooza 2017 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on March 20 at Paterno’s at the Park in Charleston.

The event will feature the stories of children, now adults, who benefitted from the Read Aloud program in their early years. Many of those former students are now passing along their love of reading to their own children or as Read Aloud volunteers. Watch for some glimpses into these stories on social media throughout the upcoming weeks by following Read Aloud West Virginia on Facebook and @ReadAloudWV on Twitter.

Appetizers, drinks, a silent auction and great company will be the highlights of the evening.  Committee members, led by chairman Hayley Woodrum, are gathering items for the silent auction, finalizing menu items and planning a fun 80s-themed atmosphere for the evening. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

Special thanks to the Signature Sponsors for Read-A-Palooza 2017, the Elliot Family Foundation and the BrickStreet Foundation. Their generous donation and other sponsorships and ticket sales will help continue the work of Read Aloud throughout the year and across the state.

Tickets for the annual fundraiser are $40 and can be purchased online or by calling 304-345-5212.

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Read-A-Palooza fundraiser most successful to date

by DonorsEventsNewsRead-a-PaloozaSupporters

Generous sponsors and donors joined forces with a dedicated committee of volunteers to make Read-A-Palooza 2016 an absolute success. The sixth annual event, held March 7th at Paterno’s at the Park, drew a larger crowd and raised more funds than any prior year.

According to Lynn Kessler, Communications and Development Director for Read Aloud, the organization was especially pleased with the outcome at a time when many non-profits have struggled to maintain previous levels of support for their fundraising efforts.

“This event always leaves us invigorated by the steadfast support of old friends as well as the excitement of making new ones,” said Kessler. “That held true this year in every way. We had amazing support from sponsors and donors, an enthusiastic committee and a wonderful crowd of guests!”

The happy hour-style event featured appetizers, drinks and conversation in a casual atmosphere. Guests bid on silent auction items including handmade jewelry, various West Virginia travel packages, art, meals and more.

Read-A-Palooza 2016 was presented by Platinum Sponsors Moses Auto Group, BrickStreet Foundation, The Elliot Family Foundation and Johnstone and Gabhart, LLP.

 

Photo (above right): Read-A-Palooza committee members Betsy Sokolosky, Johanna Miesner and Allison Boyd visit with guest and Read Aloud supporter Emma Busse.

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