Multi-Service Center (MSC) will host its inaugural regional luncheon to support programs that provide help, hope, and change for South King County residents at Emerald Downs on Wednesday, Oct. 15.
The MSC Helps Luncheon, a mission-focused fundraising event, will provide an opportunity for the community to both learn about, and celebrate, the myriad of services MSC provides for families and individuals in need.
Unfortunately, the need for services within our region has increased significantly over the past decade. A recent report from the Brookings Institute cited a 73.4 percent increase in the number of people living in poverty from the year 2000 to 2012 within South King County. Comparatively, the Seattle area only had a 44.3 percent increase. MSC can assist individuals and families in South King County in their journey out of poverty to self-sufficiency.
MSC is one of the largest non-profit social service providers in South King County, offering people pathways out of poverty through support and resources in education, employment, housing, energy assistance, food, and clothing. MSC also provides statewide advocacy for elderly and disabled residents of long-term care facilities. MSC serves more than 47,000 individuals each year.
MSC began as a grassroots community organization in 1971, with neighbors helping neighbors. It’s the community’s collective effort that makes it possible for MSC to meet this challenge of poverty and provide vital services.
Through the community’s voice, volunteerism, and financial support, MSC provides provide help, hope and change. Everyone has their part, and together we make the difference for our community.
With a planned attendance of 400 guests, the MSC Helps Luncheon will reach government, community and civic leaders from Auburn, Kent, Federal Way, Renton, and all of South King County.
Keynote Speaker Tom Vander Ark will share insights on the national and local issues that impact persons living in poverty and the goal of empowering them to self-sufficiency through the power of education. Vander Ark’s newest book, Smart Cities That Work for Everyone: 7 Keys to Education & Employment, was released Sept. 22. He is also the author of Getting Smart: How Digital Learning is Changing the World and CEO of Getting Smart, a learning advocacy firm. He was the first Executive Director of Education for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and a former Superintendent of Federal Way Public Schools.
MSC Helps Luncheon guests will experience the impact of MSC programs through the stories of three individuals who are on the path to success because of MSC’s life-changing programs, as well as hear from community leader Tom Medhurst about the positive impact we can all make. Meeghan Black will emcee the event. The MSC Helps Luncheon is sponsored by several local businesses and organizations, including Lead Sponsors: Bank of America Merrill Lynch; Shelter Resources, Inc.; and Weyerhaeuser.
For more information about the MSC Helps Luncheon, or to RSVP, please contact MSC at rsvp@mschelps.org or 253.835.7678.
