Henry Fernandez Photo
LEAP’s Read-In “DEAR” Time.
The following write-up was submitted by LEAP.
What are you doing on the evening of Thursday, Feb. 26? How about expanding your mind, meeting new people and having fun while making a difference for New Haven children.
Want to hear about Peter Rosazza’s 54 years as a priest and his reflections on six popes while eating dinner at Anne and Guido Calabresi’s home? How about listening to Chris DePino play jazz harmonica after a vegetarian meal prepared by John Cavaliere at his Lyric Hall?
Maybe you would be more interested in hearing professors John Nwangwu and Kathleen Skoczen talk about their experiences with the Ebola pandemic at the Yale president’s house (hosted by public health wiz Marta Moret). Or quite possibly you would be intrigued by law professor and Obama adviser Tracey Meares’ thoughts on American policing after Ferguson while having a meal with equally interested citizens at the home of doctors Ron and Debra Nudel.
These are just four of 27 thought-provoking dinners that make up this year’s LEAP Year Event.
LEAP Field Day.
LEAP is a great New Haven children’s program. The LEAP Year Event is LEAP’s biggest fundraiser every year. It kicks off with a reception at Hopkins School, followed by up close and personal dinners in and around New Haven.
Dinners are hosted by families who open their homes and provide a delicious meal for 8 to 10 people who choose to attend the dinner. LEAP identifies a New Haven guest of honor for each dinner who shares some of their expertise and sparks conversation at the dinner table. The dinners cost $150 and all proceeds go to the program as all the food and talent are donated! Seriously, who could pass up soul food from Sandra and Miguel Pittman of Sandra’s Second Generation restaurant as they host renowned pencil artist Krikko at his brilliantly renovated Hill Museum of Arts.
You can review the list of dinners, sign up to attend and pay all at this link. (Once you click, just scroll down for the list of dinners):
At the LEAP pool.
Because where else can you have a great conversation with Edward Snowden’s legal Advisor and Director of the ACLU Speech, Privacy and Technology Project, Ben Wizner; other than the home of Lawrence and Paulette Fox? Or hear from architect Barry Svigals about his community based design for the new Sandy Hook school in Newtown at the Getman’s home. Or have a great Cuban meal prepared by chef Jesus Puerto of Soul de Cuba who will talk about Cuban life at the home of Rita Berkson and Randy Reinhold. Want to know about the history of Islamic law and how it has been manipulated by a group like ISIS? Then join Southern Connecticut State University Professor of Middle East History at the home of SCSU President Mary A. Papazian.
LEAP serves over 600 young people from New Haven low income neighborhoods. It combines a literacy based curriculum with swim instruction, overnight camping, and athletics, as well as classes in dance, art, computer science, theater, and healthy cooking. LEAP is also New Haven’s largest employer of teens; serving as more than just a job with college tours, SAT prep, and financial aid workshops. Why not help LEAP while having a great night and meeting new interesting New Haven neighbors?
