By Goodwill Olympics & Rainier Region Public Relations Manager, George White
On Saturday, August 25, Goodwill Olympics & Rainier Region (Tacoma) gave approximately 850 teachers and educators 50,000 free books at four local Goodwill® retail stores in order to address the need for age appropriate books in elementary and middle schools in southwest Washington.
This is the third year the Tacoma Goodwill has held this event. They increased the number of books they gave away from 35,000 to 50,000 this year in part thanks to a donation of additional books from a local school district.
“Helping people gain the skills and education they need for employment starts at the very beginning with our kids,” said Lori Forte Harnick, President and CEO of Goodwill of the Olympics and Rainier Region. “Our Goodwill team is thrilled to have the opportunity to donate 50,000 books to teachers and their students across our community.”
The local Goodwill offered an assortment of children’s books, from early learning picture books to readers, chapter books, craft/hobby, educational and teen and young adult series for older students.
“Being active with parent boards at my daughter’s schools, I’ve seen firsthand the tremendous need for more books and supplies,” said Jennifer Kupka, Vice President of the Columbia Junior High Boosters Program. “Our teachers spend so much of their own money for their classrooms and many students cannot afford even the basics. While parent groups work hard to raise money to support reading programs, there is still a great need, especially in lower income districts,” said Kupka.
Teachers and educators simply need to provide proof of their occupation with their school ID or equivalent to take up to 50 books each back to their school. Teachers will also receive 30 student coupons good for an additional free book per student at all regional Goodwill stores to use as classroom incentives. In addition, each educator will receive a 25 percent off coupon to shop at any local Goodwill store. The Tacoma Goodwill also features a Kids Club online where members can choose one free book with a parent store visit.
The local Goodwill received positive press from the event, watch their news segment below:
