Way to Grow Celebrates Historic Milestone

More than 66,000 children and parents served over the last 25 years – it’s time to SHINE!

Minneapolis, MN –
High-quality early childhood education, access to services, health disparities, isolation – it can be disheartening to think that these issues still face our community and neighbors today. But there’s hope in the form of Way to Grow and this year, we’re celebrating 25 years of success.

Why?

Way to Grow’s programming “Great by Eight” – prenatal to third-grade – strengthens our communities through intensive in-home visits and community- and center-based classes because every child deserves the opportunity to succeed in school and life – no matter the obstacles he or she faces. We work to ensure children within the most isolated families in Minneapolis are born healthy, stay healthy and are prepared for school.

And we’ve done so since 1989 when local business leaders came together to discuss their concerns about high school dropout rates and workforce development. This led to an examination of the vital importance of the early years for children. With city, business and community leaders at the table, they committed to work collaboratively to raise public awareness, influence public policies and increase access to services – all with the goal of helping young children and their families succeed. From this, Way to Grow was created.

Over the last 25 years, Way to Grow has served more than 66,000 children and parents. And, for the second year, 88 percent of pre-kindergarten children were ready for school thanks to the tremendous efforts of employees, parents, funders, volunteers and community partners. So, now we celebrate!

On Friday, October 24, it’s time to SHINE at a fun-filled evening featuring musical entertainment by Darnell Davis and the Remnant with a performance by the Lundstrum Center for the Performing Arts students. Helping us celebrate is long-time partner, General Mills Foundation, with Mayor Betsy Hodges and Way to Grow Founder, Don Fraser and the Greater Twin Cities United Way (among many other notables). The night will also feature inspirational stories showcasing families impacted by Way to Grow with a few surprises commemorating a quarter-century of service.

Carolyn Smallwood, Executive Director of Way to Grow states, “Over the last 25 years, Way to Grow has been honored to serve the children and families in Minneapolis.  As we move forward, we will continue to strive towards excellence.”

Details:
Shine 25 Celebration

Friday, October 24
6:00pm – Registration and Silent Auction
7:30pm – Dinner, Entertainment and Program
9:00pm – Music featuring Darnell Davis and the Remnant

The Depot
225 South Third Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55401

Individual Tickets: $150 / Remember to wear a splash of silver!

Limited tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, please visit Mplswtg.org.