Atlanta to Mask in Support of Childhood Success

Staff Report

Dressing up and pretending to be someone else is a part of childhood. Now, Atlanta leaders will join in the fun of masking for one evening in support of Atlanta’s oldest childhood development agency and the 2,500 students it serves.

Sheltering Arms Early Education and Family Centers, founded in 1888, will host its Black & White Masquerade Charity event on Friday, September 18, 2015, from 7 to 11 p.m. at The Venetian Room of the historic Hurt Building. Guests will enjoy live entertainment, cocktails, gourmet food and casino games, all while supporting Georgia’s largest non-profit for early childhood education.

“This signature event is essential in transforming the lives of children, their families and communities throughout metro Atlanta,” said Blythe K. Robinson, President and CEO of Sheltering Arms. “It’s great to see donors, partners and all participants come together to enjoy a wonderful evening with the sole purpose of celebrating our mission and helping prepare our city’s children for success in school.”

Proceeds help fund need-based scholarships, literacy materials and teacher trainings. Ninety percent of Sheltering Arms’ families received income-based child care tuition scholarships and subsidies.

Community leaders Stephanie Blank and Lovette Russell are chairing the evening. “As mothers and as champions of early childhood education, we fully know the importance of Sheltering Arms’ efforts dedicated to quality, affordable early learning, family support services and advocacy,” said Blank and Russell.

General admission tickets begin at $100, with options for V.I.P access also available. Visit bit.ly/SAMasquerade or call 404.523.2767 for more information or to purchase tickets. Be sure to follow and engage in the online conversation using #SAMasquerade.