(Sarasota, FL) The Literacy Council of Sarasota (LCS) is pleased to announce its 11th Annual Literacy Matters Luncheon, to be held on Friday, February 23, 2018 at Michael’s On East (1212 S East Ave), Sarasota. Beginning with an open wine reception at 11 AM, this wonderful event raises funds to benefit LCS adult literacy programs and services in the community, helping over 450 adults reinvent their lives each year.
The annual luncheon features the James E. Duffy Friend of Literacy Award, this year being presented to Suncoast Technical College. “This award recognizes those in the community who have demonstrated outstanding support to local literacy efforts. Suncoast Technical College’s long-time commitment to their adult students’ continuing education and well-being makes this recognition well deserved and well earned.” says Tom Melville, LCS Executive Director. The award is named after Jim Duffy, Retired President of ABC Television Network. It is in recognition of Mr. Duffy’s ongoing dedication to literacy and education, which in no small part started with his co-founding of the renowned Project Literacy US (called, ‘PLUS’) along with the Public Broadcasting Service in 1985. He was its spokesperson, along with Former First Lady Barbara Bush, until his retirement in 1995. Mr. Duffy continues to be a strong and active supporter of LCS and is the Luncheon’s Honorary Event Chair as well.
Other event highlights include a Volunteer of the Year Award, adult learner testimonial and remarks from guest speaker, Craig Boykin, a self-made success story who is now both an author and motivational speaker.
For more information about the 11th Annual Literacy Matters Luncheon and to get tickets or become a sponsor, please visit the LCS website at www.sarasotaliteracy.org
LCS wishes to thank its premier sponsors, The Community Foundation of Sarasota County, as well as anonymous donors who underwrite the event and put up a $15,000 matching-gift challenge. LCS is also grateful for additional event sponsors, Mr. James E. Duffy, Global Financial Private Wealth, Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Advanced Underwriters Insurance, Rev. Matthew Grady, Mr. William Anderson, and Mrs. Margaret D’Albert.
About The Literacy Council of Sarasota:
Founded in 1978 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, The Literacy Council of Sarasota’s (LCS) mission is to improve literacy for adults (16+ years or older) in Sarasota County through personalized, needs-based tutoring and small group instruction. Programs focus on basic education, GED-prep, and English as a Second Language. With the help of over 240 LCS ProLiteracy-trained volunteer tutors, our vision is that all adults in our community have the literacy and English communication skills they need to succeed in life and thrive.