By: Amanda Huntsman

Get ready to indulge your senses at SAVOR 2024, presented by The Fun Zone & The David Pyle Family/OneRoot Foundation, an event that promises to be an immersive "Napa-inspired" culinary experience. On September 13th, the lush outdoor gardens of Newport Beach Country Club will come alive with exquisite cuisine, fine wines, local art showcases, and a stunning display of vintage and luxury automobiles. The evening will also honor four exceptional individuals for their invaluable contributions to the Newport Beach community.

SAVOR 2024 is more than just a celebration of food and art. This event carries a noble mission: raising funds for The Literacy Project’s critical service to struggling readers.

The Literacy Project: Transforming Lives Through Reading

The Literacy Project is dedicated to supporting the most vulnerable children in Southern California by providing critical literacy support. Founded in 2009 by Sue Grant, the organization addresses the pressing need for reading skills among struggling students. Sue Grant's lifelong dedication to literacy began with her involvement in her children's elementary school PTA, where she received the “1988 Honorary Service Award” from the California Congress of the Parents, Teacher, and Students, Inc. Her focus on psychology during her college education inspired her to help troubled youth, setting the foundation for her passion for literacy.

As a Volunteer CEO, she has helped The Literacy Project serve over 11,000 children throughout Southern California, Utah, and Arizona, raising over $5.1 million. Her leadership has garnered numerous accolades, including being named one of Orange County’s “125 Most Influential People” by the OC Register. In 2020 and 2023, Sue Grant was one of five finalists among 83 countries at the World Literacy Foundation’s “World Literacy Summit” in Oxford, London for excellence in service. Recently, Mayor Will O’Neill and the City of Newport Beach councilmen recognized The Literacy Project with a special proclamation in honor of their impact which creates generational change.

For the school year 24-25, The Literacy Project is focusing on expansion in currently served areas to include Orange County, Coachella Valley and Oxnard school districts as well as in Utah and Arizona. Additionally in Fall 2024, the program is excited to embark on helping students in Brooklyn, New York, Atlanta, Georgia and New Jersey, bringing The Literacy Project to six total states!

Sue Grant’s commitment to bridging the literacy gap has been unwavering. She believes that the gift of reading can save lives, providing children with the skills and confidence they need to succeed academically, emotionally, and in life. Each contribution of $140 can make a profound impact, equipping a child with essential phonetic skills and fostering a lifelong love for reading.

Event Details:

Date: Friday, September 13, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Newport Beach Country Club, Newport Beach

Schedule:

5:00-7:00 PM:

Explore a luxury car exhibition

Peruse the art gallery garden

Participate in a silent auction and specialty basket raffle drawing

7:00 PM:

Delight in a farm-to-table dining experience in the enchanting outdoor garden under the stars

Hear profound stories from four of Newport Beach’s passionate honorees

Witness a live literacy testimony from CA 30th District Senator Bob Archuleta

Participate in a dynamic live auction led by world-renowned auctioneer John Curry

Enjoy the musical talents of Family Style band as you dance the night away

Join us for an unforgettable evening at SAVOR 2024 and be part of a cause that changes lives. Your presence and support will help ensure that every child has the opportunity to read, learn, and succeed.

Event Information & Tickets: www.literacyproj.org/event/savor-2024
www.literacyproj.org | (949) 721-1319