“One teacher, one book, and one pen can change the world.”  Malala Yousafzia, United Nations Youth Assembly, July 12, 2013

As a result of expanded square footage in the resale shop, a highly successful Annual Fundraising Event, and an unprecedented number of grants received, Assistance League^® of the Bay Area was able to give back though the Community Outreach philanthropic program with one-time gifts.

In May, the chapter partnered with Barnes & Noble to provide award-winning children’s books for classrooms and libraries in Title I schools in the Clear Creek, Dickinson, and La Porte Independent School Districts, as well as the Mosbacher Odyssey Academy, a charter school system with locations on Galveston Island, League City, and Seabrook, Texas.

Books purchased from Barnes & Noble, valued at approximately $40,000, include the Texas Bluebonnet Award^® Books, the Caldecott Medal Honor Books, and the Tejas Star Reading List.

The books were delivered to the campuses in August.  One hundred-thirty (132) second-grade classrooms received a set of the Caldecott Medal Honor Books, 127 third-grade classrooms received a set of the Texas Bluebonnet Award Books, and each campus library received a set of the Tejas Star Reading List.  Over 3,600 books were ordered, processed, and delivered.

Each school district selected a campus where an official presentation took place prior to school commencing.  Most of the classroom teachers and librarians were stunned when chapter members arrived to congratulate them. Several teachers remarked that they were planning to host their own fundraisers in order to be in a position to purchase these books.

Instead, Assistance League of the Bay Area was able to demonstrate how volunteers are transforming lives and strengthening the community.

The organization is excited to be a part of this wonderful initiative that promotes the love of reading and captures Assistance League^®‘s Legacy of Literacy.