TAMPA - Worldwide, women work more than two-thirds of all working hours, but only make 10 percent of the pay and own less than 1 percent of the property. But a new organization is planning to change those statistics by giving a leg up to women in the Tampa Bay area, and abroad, who lack a functioning family support system.
The Savita Society is a new initiative of the Patel Foundation for Global Understanding. The society has attracted a core of women and men who are committed to helping struggling women who lack the means, education or support systems to adequately care for their families.
To introduce this initiative, The Savita Society will hold its first luncheon meeting, a fundraiser, "Walk a Mile in Her Shoes," in Tampa on Friday, Oct. 20, at The Centre Club. During this elegant luncheon, the shoes and favorite inspirational literature of more than three dozen of Tampa Bay's most distinguished women will be auctioned off for charity. Participants range from mayors to journalists; from business leaders to television personalities, and even singer/songwriter Dolly Parton will contribute new footwear and an inscribed book. The event is open to the public with the celebrity shoe auction starting at 11 a.m., the luncheon following at 12:15 p.m.
Tickets for the luncheon can be purchased in advance ($25 for students, $35 for general admission, and corporate tables are available). All proceeds from the Savita fundraiser will directly benefit two Tampa Bay area projects. The first project will provide financially strapped single moms with specialized life training and childcare. The second project will sponsor local teachers on a trip to India where they will meet with respective teachers and students to set up virtual classrooms. Go to www.global-understanding.org or call (813) 471-4380 for tickets or information.