We have some good news! State Superintendent Chris Reykdal and the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) is able to fund 50% of the cost of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library for another year! Now we need to raise the 50% match for Whidbey children. The Imagination Library provides children from birth to age five with a high-quality, age-appropriate book every month, at no cost to families, inspiring a love of reading and strengthening early literacy. Will you help us raise the 50% match?
“I had my first child in September of 2024. I knew I wanted to read to my child as much as possible. I’m so thankful for the Imagination Library providing books to my daughter each month. We both look forward to reading together! Thank you to the foundation for making a difference in our lives!” ~Hannah Watchorn
The Whidbey Community Foundation has been a local affiliate of the Imagination Library since 2022. Since then, we have enrolled 2,311 young kids and graduated 629 early readers. Just $25 will provide a monthly book for a year for 2 kids, or $125 to deliver monthly books to 10 young readers! Whidbey Island is home to about 6,000 kids 5 years old and under, and our island welcomes 400-500 new babies each year. As an affiliate of the Imagination Library, WCF’s role is to help enroll young kids into the reading program and raise funds to help pay for the books.
“I made sure our daughter signed up our brand-new grandchild on the day she was born! My daughter registered while she was in the hospital room. I treasure reading to my grandchildren every day, from the moment they are born, and couldn’t wait to get their first book from the Imagination Library!” ~ An enthusiastic reflection about the Dolly Parton Imagination Library from a grandparent.
Here’s how you can support the love of reading and the power of books with Whidbey children 0-5 years:
- Donate – Help us make the match! $25 for two children, $125 for 10 children
- Learn more about Dolly Parton Imagination Library
- Register your child or grandchild to receive a book every month
- Share the links above with your friends and family!
- Engage your children in your philanthropic giving: Many Happy Returns: How to help your kids celebrate charitable giving – Whidbey Community Foundation
