ACCESS, Inc., Akron’s homeless shelter for women and children, announced today a new twist on its annual breakfast fundraiser.
This year officials say the breakfast is entitled, Our Story, and it aims to take attendees through an interactive experience on Tues., Aug. 15, 2017.
New this year, guests will walk into the breakfast and be greeted by six different spaces, set up to tell the story of its shelter guest experience. From a 192-sq. ft. replica bedroom to a hospitality dining room that serves over 3,000 meals each month, attendees will feel the true sense of the homeless shelter’s purpose.
“The programs and services we offer at ACCESS aim to teach women and children that their stories are just beginning,” shared Lynn Budnick, Executive Director of ACCESS. “We educate them about self-confidence and the power of living healthy and positive lives.”
Along with the interactive beginning of the breakfast, a former ACCESS homeless resident named Sandra will share her personal story and how ACCESS impacted her life—including beginning her employment with ACCESS so she can encourage women just like her.
“I didn’t know how to love myself,” Sandra said. “I was self-centered and full of demons, but ACCESS loved me in the very moments I was unable to love myself. They continued to pour love into me and because of that, when life shows up, I can do the right thing. I am here—full of light, hope, and love. ACCESS taught me if you want to change, you embrace change.”
Our Story expects about 400 guests to attend and will take place on Tues., Aug. 15, 2017, from 7:30AM-9:00 AM at Quaker Station in downtown Akron.
While Our Story is free to attend, reservations are required. For more information and to reserve your seat, please visit access-shelter.org.
Michaela Madison Reporting
