Gala to benefit literacy programs

The Houston Alumnae Club of Pi Beta Phi is holding the “Under the Big Top Gala” on Saturday, March 31 at the Hotel Intercontinental, 2222 West Loop South Freeway, Houston. The gala aims to promote literacy through 12 of Houston's charitable organizations.

The event will open with a parade featuring a costumed children representing each of the 12 organizations, sponsered by Ringling Bros. & Barnum and Bailey. A fashion show produced by Lenny Matuszewski and Dillard's will follow.

The gala hopes to raise $200,000 and has given more than $1,000,000 to literacy since the inception of the program in 1984, according to a press release.

The proceeds go to promoting literacy by donating books, literacy programs, reading sessions, book carts and video and computer learning applications at numerous hospitals, schools and museums throughout Houston.