If you go
› What: Mel’s Derby Day luncheon, benefiting MaryEllen Locher Foundation.› When: 1 p.m. Sunday.› Where: The Chattanoogan hotel, 1201 Broad St.› Admission: $50; no charge for breast cancer survivors.› Phone: 423-490-4555.› Website: www.melfoundation.org.
A benefit luncheon for the MaryEllen Locher Foundation is set for Sunday afternoon at The Chattanoogan hotel. Mel's Derby Day will celebrate the foundation's latest college scholarship winners, who will be announced later this spring.
Established in 2002 by MaryEllen Locher, the foundation provides college scholarships to the children of breast cancer patients. Locher, a news anchor and health reporter for WTVC-TV, started the foundation because she was concerned about the future of her own son. She died in 2005 after her third bout with cancer.
Over the past 14 years, the foundation has awarded more than 420 scholarships totaling $707,000. Currently, 41 students representing 21 Chattanooga and North Georgia high schools are attending college through these scholarships.
The luncheon will feature a "Derby Day'' theme. Entertainment will be provided by the Voices of Lee, an a cappella ensemble from Lee University. A silent auction also will be offered.
Individual tickets are $50; there is no charge for breast cancer survivors. A variety of sponsorship levels also are available.
Funds for the foundation are raised through special events, individual donations, corporate sponsorships and private grants. The foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, and all contributions are tax-deductible.
In 2014, the organization launched Mel's Club, a breast health awareness and education program for teen girls. Presentations are available for schools, churches, civic organizations and clubs.
Sponsors and table purchases for Mel's Derby Day may be secured by visiting www.melfoundation.org and clicking on the Upcoming Events link. Or email administrator Cindy Pare at cindy@melfoundation.org, or call the foundation office at 423-490-4555.