St. Louis, MO – Sep. 21, 2023
Cornerstone Center for Early Learning, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive early childhood education, is thrilled to announce Ekon Benefits as its presenting sponsor for the 29th Annual Celebration for Children.
Cornerstone’s 29th Annual Celebration for Children will be an immersive event, showcasing the incredible impact made for Cornerstone children by St. Louis’ philanthropic community. Hundreds of guests will have the opportunity to explore Cornerstone’s recently enhanced classrooms, gaining a firsthand understanding of the transformative educational environment provided to these young learners.
“By participating in Cornerstone’s Celebration for Children, our partners and supporters are directly contributing to the educational journey of children facing adversity,” says Karen Lucy, Executive Director of Cornerstone Center for Early Learning. “Partners like Ekon Benefits help provide our children with the strong start necessary to enter kindergarten developmentally on track, paving the way for a brighter future.”
Reflecting on the importance of community involvement, Cheryl and Keith Kowalczyk, President of Ekon Benefits, share, “We are proud of our association with Cornerstone. The welfare of children is on all of us, because children are our future.” This sentiment is echoed by Education Sponsors Peggy Zapf and Joseph Epplin, who state, “We have always believed that every child is an individual, not an extension of anyone else. If you meet them on those terms, they will amaze you.”
Fellow top-level sponsors of Celebration for Children include Lucie and David Dempsey with Property Assessment Review, Home State Health and the Centene Foundation, Dale Lewis and Julie Gammack, and the Pruitt and Schmaeng Families.
This adults-only evening, set to take place on September 30th, promises an unforgettable experience featuring diverse culinary talents of local food vendors including Navin’s BBQ, Messy Kitchen Catering, Gwen from Chris’ at the Docket, and Ice’s Plain & Fancy; exciting auctions; and inspiring testimonials, all led by Emcee Calvin McClain in support of Cornerstone’s work to empower children facing adversity. Cornerstone is proud to present Ms. Alice Washington as this year’s honoree, recognizing her 27 years of exceptional dedication to the well-being and future prospects of children in the community. In addition, Mr. Caio Barbosa will share his heartfelt testimony, shedding light on the transformative power of Cornerstone’s programs.
For further information and media inquiries regarding Cornerstone’s 29th Annual Celebration for Children, please visit c4c2023.givesmart.com or contact Dani Smith, Development Director at Cornerstone Center for Early Learning, by phone at (314) 865-5244 ext. 134 or via email at dsmith@cornerstonecenterstl.org.
About Cornerstone Center for Early Learning:
Cornerstone Center for Early Learning is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a high-quality early education experience for children in St. Louis. With over 54 years of experience, Cornerstone is committed to empowering children to become lifelong learners through comprehensive programs and services that promote their social, emotional, and intellectual development.