Did you know that 63 million US adults can't read a news article written at an 8th grade level? The Literacy Program of the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County is offering you the opportunity to taking action tonight in honor of National Literacy Month.
Don't miss the 4th Annual Trivia Challenge happening this evening from 6:30PM -10 PM at the Civic Auditorium in downtown Santa Cruz. This fun and zany event will benefit adults who want to improve their lives through literacy education. Trivia buffs and literacy supporters are invited to join for an evening of live jazz, small bites, drinks, raffle prizes and a rousing trivia competition.
To add to the excitement, joining the competition will be special guest Thomas Horn. Horn is best known as a young actor for his role in the film Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. Horn is also the 2010, Kids Week Jeopardy! Winner. Horn earned $31,800 after wagering $12,000 during final Jeopardy. He will be heading up the team Horn Triplets this evening.
Teams of three will have the opportunity to test their wits against Horn's team and the top three teams will be awarded honors. Dale Julin from KSBW TV will serve as the Master of Ceremonies and attendees are invited to come casual, glamorous, or in costume.
You can rest assured that this will be not only a fabulous event but also a great way to support a program with a long history of providing results for those in need of Literacy Education.
Since its inception in 1967, this free program has taught over 10,000 individuals through one-on-one and group instruction and students consistently rate 20% above state adult education standards.
There are currently over 200 students in the program and over 60 students on the waiting list. Many students come to the program because they are unable to discuss their child’s education with the teacher or talk to the doctor about health care concerns. Since 61% of the students have children in their home, this program provides the building blocks needed to change lives for generations to come.
Many students enroll to get, keep, or advance in a job. Last year, 79% of these students reported that they had received, retained or had been promoted at work as a result of their increased reading, writing and speaking skills.
It takes about $500 dollars per year or less than $50 per month to give a student a chance for a better life. Last year, Literacy Program volunteers provided nearly 11,000 hours of instruction to help break the cycle of illiteracy in Santa Cruz County.
Every $1 donated to the program translates into about $3 of service to the community. That's an excellent return on your evening investment!
Consider stepping out in support of a truly important cause.
If You Go:
General registration is $300 per team of three and includes 3 free spectator tickets. Community members are additionally invited to join the fun as a spectator. Spectator tickets are $20 at the door. Additionally there are group discounts on spectator tickets.
For more information call 831-427-5077 or visit www.sctriviachallenge.org