Mobile, AL – United Way of Southwest Alabama (UWSWA) is thrilled to announce its upcoming 2023 Annual Meeting, taking place on August 10, 2023, from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at The Battle House Renaissance Mobile Hotel & Spa (26 North Royal Street, Mobile, 36602).

This year’s event promises to be an inspiring gathering as we welcome keynote speaker Ron Ferguson, Ph.D., founder and president of The Basics. Dr. Ferguson, a renowned economist and researcher, has dedicated his career to studying factors that affect educational achievement, with a particular focus on the achievement gap in the United States and strategies to improve schools and identify effective teachers.

The Basics Southwest Alabama, a program deeply rooted in the belief that the first three years of a child’s life are crucial for brain development, aims to support new mothers and children during this critical period. By implementing five evidence-based parenting and caregiving principles known as The Basics, children from all backgrounds can benefit from enhanced social, emotional, and cognitive skills. UWSWA collaborates with various local organizations and partner agencies to ensure that parents and caregivers receive comprehensive support from their families and friends in integrating The Basics practices into their daily routines.

“We are honored to have Dr. Ron Ferguson join us as the keynote speaker for our 2023 Annual Meeting,” said Justine Bixler, Interim President & CEO of United Way of Southwest Alabama. “His expertise in educational achievement and dedication to closing the achievement gap align perfectly with our mission. We look forward to his insights and the inspiration he will bring to our community.”

Early bird tickets for the UWSWA’s 2023 Annual Meeting are currently on sale until July 17 for $60 per person or $600 for a table of nine. General admission tickets will be available from July 18 through August 2 for $75 per person or $750 for a table of nine. To secure your seats for this highly anticipated event, visit https://uwswa-23AnnualMeeting.eventbrite.com.

Don’t miss this opportunity to join us at the United Way of Southwest Alabama’s 2023 Annual Meeting and gain valuable knowledge from Dr. Ron Ferguson as we strive to create a sturdy foundation for school readiness among children in our community.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Justine Bixler at jbixler@uwswa.org or 251.431.0134. For media inquiries, contact Leslie Schraeder at lschraeder@uwswa.org or 251.431.0101.

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