Press Releases

Toni Morrison Luncheon Draws Sell-Out Crowd

11/15/2008

Author Toni Morrison, winner of both Nobel and Pulitzer prizes, was the featured speaker at Read to Grow's sold-out fall fundraising luncheon on Friday, November 14, at the Omni Hotel at Yale in New Haven. The author spoke about the importance of sharing stories with children in developing early literacy, and presented her new book, A Mercy.

The event was sponsored by Citizens Bank, long-time supporter of Read to Grow. State Senator Toni Harp was honorary chair and presented Read to Grow awards to News Channel 8/MyTV 9 and York Correctional Institution for their work in supporting early literacy.

 With this event, Read to Grow offered an opportunity to sponsor area high school students who otherwise might not be able to attend the luncheon, and hear Toni Morrison's inspirational words about the power of books and the importance of literacy. Generous individuals and businesses provided support for more than 30 students. Pictured here with the author are those who attended from Wilbur Cross High School in New Haven, thanks to a donation from Discover Re.

Jon Hitchcock, VP and general manager of WTNH, accepted the Corporate Partner Award bestowed upon the station for creating Read to Grow's public service announcements, and arranging for sponsorship to support the airing of the spots, providing more than $1,000,000 worth of air time over the last decade.

The Community Partner Award was presented to David Chaisson and Deb Cauley of York Correctional Institution, whose unique collaboration with Read to Grow has involved inmates in assembling our hospital literacy bags for Hartford hospitals since 2006, and for promoting literacy by providing Family Read classes (formerly Motheread) for the women of York conducted by Read to Grow staff members.

7/13/2008
Read to Grow Inducted into Channel 13 Hall of Fame
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12/1/2008
Community Foundation Awards $40,000 to RTG
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