Authoring Action gives taste of the South to raise funds
On Thursday, Nov. 16, Authoring Action, a nonprofit arts and education outreach organization, held its eighth annual “Taste of the South” fundraiser.
During the event held at the Milton Rhodes Center of the Arts on Spruce Street and led by co-chairs Judge Denise Hartsfield and Judge Laurie Hutchins, nearly 100 attendees enjoyed Southern cuisine from some of the best restaurants in the area, N.C. wines and hand-crafted beer and live music. The fundraiser also featured a silent auction, where supporters of the organization bid on items such as authentic sports memorabilia.
Authoring Action students performed original poetry at the event, also.
While all proceeds from the event went to support the year-round programs offered by Authoring Action, separate funds were raised to support the “Just Us” program. This writing and film program works with both teens in the judicial system and teens at-risk of entering the system. Program participants are recommended by court counselors and judicial personnel. Currently the program receives partial funding from the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC).
Since its inception, Authoring Action has been dedicated to developing young people in Winston-Salem and Forsyth County as authors. Today Authoring Action offers year-round youth programs and community service workshops designed to engage youth.
While reflecting on the past, and looking toward the future of the organization, co-founder and executive director Lynn Rhodes said she is proud of the impact Authoring Action has made over the years. Since 2002, hundreds of local children have participated in the program.
“It’s thrilling because we started this organization to give teens a voice,” said Rhodes. “I’m so proud of all the kids because they become so articulate and they are so original with their thoughts.”
Authoring Action still needs help uplifting youth. For more information or to make a donation, visit www.authoringaction.com.
