Mark Your Calendar!
Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Tri-County Technical College – Easley Campus
Tickets & Registration
Registration will open in two phases:
- Reserved tables of 8 ($300) go on sale first
- Individual tickets ($40) will be available as space allows
We encourage early table reservations — this event traditionally sells out.
Every Child Deserves a Strong Start- And You Can Help Make it Happen
The 2026 Women United Luncheon for Literacy is where our community comes together around something that matters — putting books into the hands of babies and toddlers across Pickens County. It's an afternoon of connection, inspiration, and purpose, and it has sold out year after year for good reason: when you're in that room, you feel the difference your support is making.
Hosted by WYFF News 4's Jane Robelot, this year's luncheon will feature a keynote address from Dr. C.C. Bates, a nationally respected leader in early literacy education. You'll also hear directly from a Preschool Pages family, celebrate the impact our community is making, and have the opportunity to give so that more young children can start school ready to learn.
What to Expect
Join us for a seated luncheon featuring a delicious meal, inspiring speakers, and a chance to connect with others who share your heart for children. The program runs about 90 minutes and includes a warm welcome, a keynote on the power of early literacy, a story from a local family, and an opportunity to support Preschool Pages with a gift. Come ready to be inspired — and to make a difference.
About Your Keynote
Dr. C. C. Bates is Associate Dean, Professor of Literacy Education, and Director of the Clemson University Early Literacy Center for South Carolina. Her work focuses on the importance of early literacy, access to books for young children, and the role of communities in supporting lifelong readers.
C.C. Bates is a Professor of Literacy Education at Clemson University and serves as Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies in the College of Education. She has authored more than 50 scholarly publications, including peer-reviewed journal articles, books, book chapters, and technical reports. Her research has been supported by over $13 million in external funding. She earned her PhD in Language and Literacy with a concentration in Early Literacy from Georgia State University. Dr. Bates began her career as a kindergarten teacher and later worked as a reading interventionist and literacy coach. She was named Teacher of the Year in Newton County, Georgia, and was a top 10 finalist for Georgia Teacher of the Year.
Building Stronger Readers from the Very Start
Proceeds from the Luncheon for Literacy benefit Preschool Pages, Women United’s signature early literacy program serving local toddlers and their caregivers. Through interactive story time, crafts, and take-home books, Preschool Pages helps children develop foundational literacy skills while showing caregivers how everyday moments can support learning at home.
For just $125, you can sponsor a child's entire year of Preschool Pages — putting books in their hands, songs in their hearts, and a love of learning in their future.
Early literacy lays the groundwork for lifelong success. Your support helps ensure more children enter school feeling confident, prepared, and excited to learn.
Please note: Ticket purchases cover the cost of the luncheon. Additional gifts made during the event directly support the purchase of books and literacy materials for young children in Pickens County.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsorship opportunities are available now and provide meaningful recognition while directly supporting early literacy in our community. Sponsors confirmed by invitation print deadline receive recognition on all printed materials. We welcome sponsors at any time — contact us to learn what's still available.
