Eat, Drink & Be Giving celebrates five years of generosity, helping children overcome barriers to learning and reach their potential.
Every child deserves the chance to walk into a classroom ready to learn. But when a child can’t see the words on a page or the lesson on the board, something as simple as seeing clearly can become a barrier to success.
Five years ago, Sunder Subbaroyan and Annette Sherbeyn set out to help change that. Inspired by Vision To Learn, which provides students with free eye exams and glasses, they turned a simple idea into Eat, Drink & Be Giving – an evening of exceptional food and an auction dedicated to helping local children succeed.
On Saturday, October 24, that vision reached a remarkable milestone. The fifth annual event at Crow Valley Golf Club celebrated $1 million in cumulative giving, made possible by hosts Sunder Subbaroyan & Annette Sherbeyn, co-hosts Mike & Myra Daniel and Nate & Tawny Stoffregen, and the sponsors and supporters who have invested their time, leadership and resources in the cause. Guest Chef Dustin Valette added a memorable culinary experience to an evening with a deeper purpose.
“Reaching $1 million is an incredible milestone, but what matters most is what that generosity makes possible for children,” said host Sunder Subbaroyan. “Every child deserves the chance to see clearly, learn confidently, and discover what they can achieve. Annette and I are grateful to everyone who has helped turn this vision into a reality.”
“This milestone belongs to everyone who has opened their hearts, shared their resources, and believed in this event,” said co-hosts Mike and Myra Daniel. “Over five years, our community has transformed one special evening into a lasting tradition of generosity, and we’re honored to be part of it.”
Seeing the Impact
Since Vision To Learn launched in the Quad Cities in August 2023, the initiative has reached 15 schools, screened 5,581 students, provided 1,253 eye exams, and delivered glasses to 1,152 children.
Behind those numbers are students gaining access to something many take for granted: the ability to see clearly in the classroom. Last spring, 43 students at one local school
received glasses. Several months later, 31 showed increased reading scores on the state’s FAST assessment.
This summer, the initiative expanded into Illinois for the first time, providing glasses to 36 children and extending access to vision care across the Quad Cities.
“Vision care is just one important piece”, said host Annette Sherbeyn. “Children also need literacy support, mental health resources, and the encouragement to feel confident and ready to learn. We want every child to discover their own potential.”
That broader commitment guides United Way Quad Cities and its partners. From vision care to literacy and mental health support, the work helps children feel safe, supported
and ready to learn – building a stronger foundation for families and the future of the Quad Cities.
It's All for the Kids
Five years. One million dollars. And a community that believes every child deserves the opportunity to succeed.
The true measure of Eat, Drink & Be Giving isn’t the milestone alone. It’s the children who will have more opportunities to see clearly, build confidence, overcome challenges,
and discover what’s possible for their futures.
“What makes this event so meaningful is the connection between an unforgettable
evening and a purpose that lasts long after it ends,” said co-host Tawny Stoffregen. “Nate and I hope that spirit continues to inspire even more people to get involved and help shape a stronger future for the Quad Cities.”