Here’s a Way to Support Georgia’s Youngest Children—Attend GEEARS’ Annual Luncheon
By GEEARS for The Saporta Report
GEEARS leads a movement—fueled by research and advocacy—to make our state the best place to raise a very young child. Yet in 2025, federal policy changes are weakening some supports for Georgia’s families, just when their needs are greater than ever.
That means it’s time for all of us to join this movement. One way to do it? Attend or sponsor GEEARS’ Annual Luncheon.
This event is more than a fundraiser at a critical time. It’s also a celebration of our organization’s 15th anniversary. It’s only fitting that we mark this milestone with the supporters who’ve fueled our growth and success for Georgia children ages birth through five, and that we also honor some of our community’s most impactful early childhood heroes. We’ll present Georgia Speaker Pro Tem Jan Jones with our Early Childhood Champion Award and members of Gwinnett Building Babies’ Brains will receive the Early Childhood Advocate Award.
Also at our luncheon, which will be staged in a Zoo Atlanta ballroom, we’re going to have a very good time!
Let’s start with our keynote speaker. In addition to being thoughtful enough to move just about anyone to tears, Steve Burns just happens to be an early childhood icon. When he hosted Blue’s Clues in the 1990s, Steve seemed to actually listen to his tiny viewers talking to him through the TV screen. His respect made quiet kids feel heard and little kids feel big. For children who felt lonely or lost, as too many unfortunately do, he felt like a true friend. And now, in his upcoming podcast, he’ll share these qualities with adults.
While Steve’s remarks will be a balm for our souls, a raffle will provide the event’s zing! The gifts will be a grab bag of fun, ranging from a Steve Penley painting to Zoo Atlanta passes, from Hawks and Alliance Theatre tickets to a class-and-gear package at Orangetheory Fitness.
Of course, the part of the luncheon we at GEEARS most look forward to is spending time with you.
Both our stalwart partners in Georgia’s early childhood ecosystem and those who are newly awakened to the critical urgency of the first five years.
The philanthropists and business leaders who understand that there’s no better investment with greater returns than the love, energy, and funds that we pour into our youngest children.
The parents, child care providers, and early educators who put in the daily work to improve little ones’ outcomes.
We’re all in this together so let’s get together and celebrate our collective work. Click here to learn more and reserve your seat(s).
Thursday, October 23rd 11:30am – 1:30pm.
Savanna Hall at Zoo Atlanta, 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315