2011 Day of Action
Children's Book Collection
Dear Friend,
Think of the difference books have made in your life – the places they’ve taken you without ever leaving home, the hours of entertainment and the lessons they’ve taught. It is disturbing to note that last year 80% of the families in America did not purchase nor did they read a book to their children. This is unacceptable and we want to guarantee that the children in the Illinois Valley have the opportunity to receive a book this year. So, the United Way of Illinois Valley, in conjunction with United Way Worldwide’s Day of Action program, will initiate a Children’s Book Collection.
How will it work? Well, with your help, UWIV will sponsor a book drive asking members of our community to donate gently read or new books appropriate for children aged newborn through 8th grade. During the month of May we will collect these books and ready them for distribution. Our goal is to provide two free books for each child in the Illinois Valley – age being the only qualification for participation. This is quite a lofty goal, but we know that availability of books in a home is a strong predictor of later academic success. Readers are Succeeders.
How can you help? We are seeking book drop-off locations in the community. If you would like to have a container at your business/school – or can suggest a location, kindly call us (815 223-8339). We would like to make it easy for people to donate their books, and are also in the process of finding a storefront for the month of May where the books can be cleaned, organized and boxed for distribution. Distribution day will be on Saturday, June 18 at the United Way office. We will need volunteers to help us each step of the way – can you spare some time? Please give us a call!
Saturday, April 30 will be our kick-off event and have planned an Art Day for Children. We have secured a number of boxes and barrels for collection and need to have them decorated – so, students are invited to bring art supplies and creativity to the United Way office from 9:30 am – 12 noon to help prepare the containers (RSVP by Friday, April 29). Teachers interested in having their class decorate a container may call UWIV and we will deliver!
Not sure what books to donate – monetary donations will be gladly accepted. We have a great list of recommended books we would love to purchase for distribution! Just drop a check in the mail payable to UWIV Children’s Book Collection. We will send a receipt acknowledging your gift and then purchase books in your name.
Make a difference in the life of a child – donate books.
Thank you.
Nikki Jan
Nikki Tonioni,
UWIV Intern Jan Martin, UWIV Project Coordinator