Do You Remember the Magic?

Do you remember the magic of your first book? Do you remember the colors, the pictures, the creativity? You’re pretty lucky if you do, because there are children in the world who don’t have the opportunity to see the magic. In fact, some of those children are right here in Utah County.

The statistics are pretty frightening. 61% of low-income families have no books at all in their homes for children. In Utah County, 11% of children live below the poverty line. There is hope in combating illiteracy, and it is moving forward with First Book Utah County.

First Book is an international nonprofit organization that works with existing local literacy programs to distribute new books to children who have little or no access to books. The Utah County chapter of First Book was started in 2005. In 2009 alone, seven literacy programs have received over 3,600 books through grants from the Utah County First Book program. United Way is a great supporter of this program, in its efforts to improve education in this community.

How can you support First Book, and help improve literacy in Utah County? First Book Utah County is teaming up with the Provo-Orem Kiwanis Club for a fundraising luncheon on Tuesday, February 23. Sizzler is graciously donating its facilities and food for the event, so all proceeds will go to Utah County First Book. The cost is $10 per plate, and the event starts at 12:15 p.m. Come by and listen to the guest speaker, Provo Mayor John Curtis, and enjoy some great food! Help Utah County LIVE UNITED and bring the magic of books into the lives of children.