Shreveport, LA – The United Way of Northwest Louisiana (UWNWLA) has surpassed its end-of-year fundraising goal, raising an impressive $97,000 to support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a program that promotes literacy by mailing free, age-appropriate books to children from birth to age five. The funds will sponsor approximately 2,771 children in Northwest Louisiana, including children with special needs, for the coming year.
Key contributors to the campaign included $25,000 grants from AEP SWEPCO and American Express, a $15,000 grant from the City of Natchitoches, and individual donors, including UWNWLA board members and community partners. The board members further demonstrated their commitment by sponsoring seven schools with pre-K classrooms across Caddo Parish, providing students with sets of Imagination Library books and enrolling them in the program.
A Campaign Focused on Inclusion and Impact
Launched on November 11, 2024, this was the third consecutive year for UWNWLA’s end-of-year giving campaign. The funds raised not only place books in the hands of children but also expand resources for children with special needs. The campaign supported initiatives such as providing braille and audiobooks for children who are visually impaired or have learning differences and funding book sets for classrooms like The Community School at Holy Angels, which aids children with developmental disabilities.
“It has been our dream to evolve the Imagination Library from a book-giving program to a literacy program, targeting illiteracy in homes, classrooms, and for little ones facing unique challenges,” said UWNWLA President & CEO LaToria W. Thomas. “Thank you to our community for making this dream a reality. Together, we are opening a world of possibilities, helping every child thrive and nurturing a love for reading.”
Addressing a Critical Need
The Imagination Library plays a vital role in combating literacy challenges, especially for children with disabilities. According to the 2019 ALICE in Focus: People with Disabilities report, 82% of children with disabilities under age five in Louisiana lived in ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) or poverty households. Additionally, seven out of ten children in Louisiana under 18 have a cognitive disability. For families often burdened by medical expenses, access to books can be a luxury. The Imagination Library bridges this gap, ensuring children of all abilities can develop the tools they need to succeed in school and life.
Looking Ahead
Despite its successful campaign, UWNWLA has set an ambitious goal of raising $600,000 to enroll all 33,000 eligible children across its ten-parish region. The organization continues to call on the community for support to achieve this milestone.
To donate or learn more about the United Way Book Club and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, visit United Way NWLA Book Club. To enroll a child in the program, visit Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Enrollment.
About UWNWLA
UWNWLA is committed to improving lives by addressing critical community needs through programs, partnerships, and resources. By supporting education, health, and financial stability, UWNWLA empowers individuals and families in Northwest Louisiana to achieve their full potential.
This milestone underscores the community’s generosity and highlights the transformative power of literacy programs to create lasting change.