Boosting literacy with Little libraries
Seven little libraries will be installed by local school entrances by the non-profit, Parents in Education, to help make reading more accessible. The schools include Birmingham Elementary, Deveaux Elementary, Escuela SMART Academy, Keyser Elementary, Leverette Elementary, Old Orchard Elementary, and Queen of Apostles School. “Access to books should never be a barrier to learning,” said PIE executive director Brooke Schlageter said. “Many of the children we serve may not have books at home, and these little free libraries will help change that. By making books freely available to all children in our partner communities — not just those enrolled in our programs — we’re helping children develop stronger literacy skills, gain confidence and continue learning beyond the classroom.”
Two Friends Turn Donating Cookies into Sweet Nonprofit
Cookies for Better has been the mission of Gavin Ballard and Logan Dane, two friends since elementary school who graduated from Northview High School in May. Thanks to their talents in baking, organizing and entrepreneurship, six local charities receive a total of 850 cookies every two weeks to distribute to the people they help. See the full story by Dennis Bova on Toledoparent.com.
Nonprofit receives award for courage
Open Arms Transformation Living, a Toledo nonprofit, received a prestigious award from The Courage Project in recognition of its courageous commitment to serving vulnerable youth and strengthening the community. “This recognition from The Courage Project is deeply meaningful because it affirms the lived‐experience leadership and trauma‐responsive work we pour into Toledo’s youth every day,” said Fonda J. Royster, executive director of Open Arms Transformation Living. “At OATL, we believe healing and stability are possible when young people feel seen, safe, and supported. This award strengthens our commitment to building systems where vulnerable youth are no longer invisible.”
Program that supports local fathers receives funding
The Zepf Center recently announced a five-year award, totaling $6.25 million, from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Family Assistance. The funds are for its Northwest Ohio Fatherhood Connection, a program that empowers local fathers. This funding will support the program and help expand its reach throughout the community. Additionally, Zepf Center named Robert Bass as the program’s Project Director. “This is an exciting moment for our Fatherhood program and the families we serve,” said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. “Robert Bass is a visionary leader whose passion, experience, and community connections will help us expand our impact, strengthen outcomes, and create even greater opportunities for children and families across our region.”
