The Literacy Network of Greater Cincinnati (LNGC) hosted its seventh annual Handbags for Hope fundraiser recently at the Newport Syndicate. More than 320 guests helped raise over $57,000 for Literacy Network programs.
Tim Goldrainer of The Menus returned as emcee. Guests raised their paddles for designer handbags including: Louis Vuitton, Burberry, Tory Burch and more.
Live auction items this year also included unique and exciting experiences including two tickets to “Hamilton” in Chicago, a B-105 fan lunch experience, and tickets to “Spamalot” at the Warsaw Federal Incline Theater.
The B-105 morning team awards fan Mickey Tibbs with a lunch experience: Denice Koenig, Chelsie, Mickey Tibbs, Big Dave, Lynn Smyth, Statt
The night also included a variety of silent auctions and raffles featuring prizes from Macy’s, Diamonds Rock and more.
Harry and Nikki Cappel were named as the 2018 Honorary Chairs. Harry has served on the Literacy Network board for nine years and has tutored at Oyler School in Price Hill for 10 years. When Harry became involved, Nikki did too. They have both enthusiastically supported Literacy Network gift gathering parties and countless special events.
Big Dave, Chelsie and Statt from the B-105 morning team awarded the 2018 Hope Award to one of the Literacy Network’s Adult Basic Reading students, Sokhna Ndiaye. Sokhna is a dedicated wife and mother of two and has recently graduated from the Freestore Foodbank’s Cincinnati Cooks culinary training program. She shared with guests how the Literacy Network has improved her reading and has become a home to her and her family.
Guests welcomed Sokhna to the stage with a standing ovation after hearing about her journey to become a strong and confident reader.
“Sokhna is incredibly deserving of this award. Her strong work ethic, steadfast commitment, and deep gratitude have inspired all of us and her fellow students” stated Michelle Otten Guenther, President of the Literacy Network.
