Champions of literacy – friends, supporters and volunteers – gathered on the first Wednesday in June for the annual “Juleps in June” summer fête on behalf of One Book One New Orleans (OBONO). A campaign for literacy and community through a shared reading experience, the nonprofit spotlights one book per year – about New Orleans, voted upon by participants – and works hard to put the book in the hands of people who otherwise wouldn’t have access.
The nonprofit shook up the usual program this year, and in lieu of a fundraiser hosted a thank you party in appreciation of those who offered their steadfast support of OBONO’s mission during challenging pandemic times.
Sidecar Patio & Oyster Bar donated their indoor/outdoor upper floor patio and bar, where guests enjoyed catching up with friends new and old in the cool summer air while sipping on fresh, made-to-order Mint Juleps and libations from the open bar. The restaurant also provided a massive catering spread, including a host of small bites and hearty dinner options that offered ample choices for all guests in attendance, including vegan-friendly options.
A slideshow played on screens throughout the venue, featuring pictures and information about OBONO’s work during the pandemic. Acoustic duo Roy Callais and Micah McKee provided musical entertainment.
Megan Holt, Executive Director of OBONO, thanked the Board and all attendees for their commitment and agility in shifting operations to keep everyone safe and invited everyone to celebrate the profound accomplishments of their collective work. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, OBONO has provided more than 5,000 books to people who lost access due to the closures of schools and libraries. The organization also pivoted to offer some of its free community-oriented and family-friendly programming on their YouTube channel, in addition to hosting events throughout the neighborhoods of New Orleans, with the goal of being as accessible as possible to participants near and far. OBONO has provided 912 (and counting) copies of this year’s book selection, The Yellow House by Sarah M. Broom, to the community.
Event At A Glance
What: “Juleps in June,” benefiting One Book One New Orleans
When: Wednesday, June 2
Where: Sidecar Patio & Oyster Bar
Follow One Book One New Orleans at Facebook @onebookoneneworleans, Instagram @onebookonenola, Twitter @onebookonenola2 and on YouTube @onebookoneneworleans.
Annell Lopez, Rory Callais, Micah McKee and Executive Director Megan Holt
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