Two weeks ago we shared information about an amazing program called the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which provides free books to children age birth to 5 years. Begin with Books is a local non-profit organization that makes it happen here on the local level. Children who are enrolled in the program receive a book in the mail every month from the time of enrollment until the age of 5. Eligibility is determined by zip code, and a complete list of eligible zip codes can be found HERE, along with additional information on how to enroll your child.
This program is currently active in many Charleston County zip codes and they are working to expand into new zip codes in the area. In fact, most recently, the North Charleston zip code 29405 was added, expanding the program further. If you don’t see your zip code listed, this program may be coming to your area in the future. If you would like to see this program expand into your area, there are several ways that you can get involved!
Begin with Books, in partnership with Palmetto Project, is trying to secure funding to expand this program statewide. Currently, much of the funding that brings this program to life comes from private sector and community organizations that donate funds to support the program. The Palmetto Project has submitted a proposal to the S.C. House Ways & Means Committee requesting state funds to support this project. If approved, the State would match funds raised locally.
So what can you do to help?
1) Call your senators and representatives! Let them know how important it is to you for children to have early access to books, building essential literacy skills for their future.
2) Organize a fundraiser! Do you own a local business or know someone who does? Reach out to Begin with Books to find out how you can organize a fundraising event to support this cause.
3) Organize a donation drive! Do you have a play group, scout troop, parent’s group or neighborhood group that is willing to come together and raise funds to support this program? Reach out to Begin with Books for ideas, support and additional resources to get you started.
4) Volunteer! Begin with Books needs volunteers to help with enrollment and other community engagement activities throughout the year.
5) Donate! You can make a general donation to the program, or even request that your donation be earmarked for your specific zip code.
I am personally very excited to watch this program grow here in South Carolina and hope to organize my own donation drive in the coming months. It is amazing what we can accomplish as a community when we all lend a helping hand. Hopefully we can come together and support this awesome organization in its mission to make books accessible to all children in South Carolina regardless of income.
