South Sound Programs

“BOOKS FOR BABIES”

Partnership with Altrusa, Zonta, Ross/Similac Advance, Timberland Regional Library and the Hands On Children's Museum to distribute literacy diaper bags (books and literacy materials) at Capital Medical Center, Mason Co. General, and Providence St. Peter Hospital.

"BORN TO READ"

Early literacy program targeting low-income patients of pediatricians, home health nurses and midwives. Each patient gets a new board book and educational brochure at his or her 6-month checkup. Sponsors include Heritage Bank, Squaxin Island Tribe, and the Thurston Mason Medical Alliance.

BOOK VAN

The BookVan travels to schools, low-income areas and community events to promote literacy and give away FREE books to children. The van was donated by Olympia Auto Mall and includes several sponsors, including Rotary and Kiwanis clubs, Target, TwinStar, Olympia Federal Savings and others. Each school district has semi-regular BookVan visits based on the size and location of the district.

BOOKER T. (“TWENTY”) BEAR

The Reading Foundation has its own mascot, a big yellow bear with a blue “20 minutes a day” t-shirt. He is available for school visits based on availability. Note: Having your own high school or staff volunteers willing to be “Booker” is very helpful!

BOOK BOXES FOR LITERACY

Each elementary and middle school served by the SSRF has been provided with a refillable box containing 30 books for students in need. Support for this program is provided by the Gail Wyman Fund of the Community Foundation, the Lassen Foundation, and Scholastic books.

VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers help at events such as BookVan distributions and storytimes at local bookstores and community events. Guest readers in our “ADOPT-A-DAYCARE” program are paired with a child care facility for regular storytime visits.