In this interview, Noozhawk talked with Debbie Whiteley, Communications Specialist for the Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (CADA) to learn more about their upcoming Gratitude Luncheon.
Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (CADA) – Mentor Program Gratitude Luncheon
Question: What is the name & date of your event?
Answer: The Annual CADA Mentor Program Gratitude Luncheon; Tuesday, April 27, 2021, 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m
Q: What is the mission, goal, and/or theme of this occasion?
A: The Mentor Program Gratitude Luncheon is an annual celebration of the tremendous contributions of its mentors (currently approaching 100 in number) who spend weekly time with their mentors to help them avoid risky behaviors, develop critical self-improvement skills, and create achievable short and long-term goals. It is also a time to honor a special mentor with the “Penny Jenkins Mentor Champion Award” – the 2021 Mentor of the Year is long-time Santa Barbara resident Bob Kingston, a member of CADA’s Mentor Task Force and a mentor for the past 5 years. The event also allows participants to honor a mentor in their own lives, whose name and photo can be shared on the event website and during the event.
Q: Have you held this event before?
A: The luncheon is now in its 17th year and will be hosted by event founder and annual chair Anne Smith Towbes.
Q: Tell us some more details about your celebration?
A: The event will feature pioneering entertainment reporter Rona Barrett speaking about the power of mentoring, and special musical guests Michael McDonald and Teen Star 2020 winner Andie Bronstad.
Q: How do people get involved with your event? (volunteer, attend, etc.) – If your event includes ticket sales, please note the price and include a link to purchase tickets.
A: Free event registration, plus sponsorship and donation information can be found at www.cadagratitude.org
Q: Is this a fundraising affair? If so, how will the funds raised help your organization?
A: The annual Gratitude Luncheon is the flagship fundraiser for the Mentor Program, and all donations are used to directly support the activities and continued growth of the program.
Q: Who is sponsoring your event, and why is their support important?
A: Having a mentor – particularly in such a challenging environment – can be a life-changing experience. The Mentor Program continues to evolve and find innovative ways to thrive. However, the need for mentors is rapidly growing, as more local youth and their families struggle with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Financial support of the Mentor Program Gratitude Luncheon enable CADA to match caring mentors with mentees (3rd – 8th grade) who have been referred by school counselors and psychologists as at-risk for behaviors.
We are deeply grateful to many generous individuals and organizations, including our $10,000 Gold Heart Sponsors: Lillian Lovelace, Loretta Redd, and Kenny and Elizabeth Slaught. Your support will make a huge positive difference in the lives of local youth.
Q: Do you work with an Event Planner? If not, who are the key people who make it all happen?
A: Catherine Remak, CADA’s Director of Corporate Development & Communications, oversees the annual event and is supported by Merryl Brown Events.
Q: Does your organization have any other upcoming events this year?
A: The First Annual CADA Gold Classic, another benefit for the Mentor Program, will be held Monday, June 7, 2021, at La Cumber Country Club (10 a.m. – 6 p.m.). Deckers Brands is the event’s Presentation Sponsor. Registration details can be found at www.cadasb.org
Q: What are you planning as a post-event follow up?
A: At this time, no post-event follow-up is planned.