SHREVEPORT, La. — United Way of Northwest Louisiana has launched the “What Would Dolly Do” (WWDD) Krewe, a new membership-based initiative inspired by Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and aimed at promoting literacy and community involvement across the region.
The effort coincides with celebrations of Parton’s upcoming 80th birthday and seeks to honor her legacy of generosity and commitment to childhood education. The Krewe will unite supporters who believe in literacy, leadership, and community engagement, with a focus on expanding access to books for local children from birth to age five.
“This is more than a fun initiative. It is a membership-based movement built to create long-term impact,” said LaToria Willis Thomas, president and CEO of United Way of Northwest Louisiana. “As Dolly herself has shown us, when you lead with heart and consistency, you can change lives. The What Would Dolly Do Krewe gives our community a joyful and intentional way to invest in early childhood literacy while helping ensure this program remains strong for generations to come.”
Membership in the WWDD Krewe includes opportunities for advocacy, volunteer reading events, and year-round fundraising efforts to support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which provides free, high-quality books to young children each month.
The idea draws inspiration from groups such as the Krewe of Dolly in New Orleans and the Mystic Dollies in Mobile, Alabama, which combine celebration and philanthropy to advance literacy initiatives.
Through community events and outreach, United Way aims to deepen engagement around early childhood education and generate sustainable funding for the Imagination Library’s continued growth in Northwest Louisiana.
Community members interested in joining the What Would Dolly Do Krewe can complete an interest form at unitedwaynwla.org/education or email [email protected] for more information.