What a great year for The Kids Need to Read Foundation! Becoming a 501(c)(3) tax exempt public charity fueled a growth in the organization, enabling us to fulfill the requests of our applicants and to partner with two medical clinics serving disadvantaged children. I remember when PJ Haarsma first spoke to me of the need to help under-funded schools and libraries get new books – I was excited, but wondered how there could be much need. Now, a year and a half later, the shock of discovering the massive need for assistance has led to a deep passion and determination to provide books everywhere they are lacking. All of our volunteers share this passion and determination. If you wonder why, take a moment to read our library submissions; then read our testimonials. They are the answer to the question.
Now that Kids Need to Read has completed setting up its legal and business structure, the new year will be spent focusing on fundraising, with the hope of greatly increasing the number of books we are able to give. Phoenix, Arizona will be our new home. The dedication of our officers and staff is so solid, that we have all committed to relocate to Phoenix from the various cities we live in so that we may fundraise more effectively. What could show more passion and determination than this substantial commitment?
The groundwork is being laid for 2009 and 2010, not only with our friends in
We look forward to a productive year dedicated to improving childhood literacy together.
Denise Gary
Executive Director