This spring, ThinkGive and Barefoot Books partnered to bring social and emotional learning (SEL) titles to classrooms and out-of-school programs. Thirteen partner schools and organizations working with under-resourced K-8 youth submitted requests for SEL books to support their teaching. This wish list became the springboard for our event at the Barefoot Books Concord store, where supporters connected over ThinkGive’s mission to empower youth to take actions that positively impact themselves and others. Guests listened to educator Mimi Gleason from Carlisle Public School share stories about ThinkGive’s impact on her students and shopped a room filled with wonderful SEL titles.
The evening at Barefoot marked the beginning of our online book sale, an initiative aimed at bringing SEL titles to under-resourced youth. The sale resulted in 290 books being distributed to the youth at our partner sites. Our educators and supporters were deeply appreciative of the books, recognizing the significant impact they would have on their classrooms and the lives of the youth they serve. This brief clip from Renn Duffy at Danny’s Place Youth Services highlights the impact of our collaboration with Barefoot Books.
“It was a pleasure working with the staff, educators, and supporters of ThinkGive, as we share the goal of teaching children to believe in their capacity to be forces for good in this world,” said Carolyn Wilkins, Director of Community & Partnerships at Barefoot Books. “Hosting their annual event in our colorful publishing space this spring, given our shared commitment to literacy and kindness, made for an impactful event that we hope will fuel their continued growth for years to come.”
We are deeply grateful for your support. Your contribution has enabled us to provide these SEL titles to the youth who need them the most. Your support has made our partnership with Barefoot Books and the subsequent book sale a success. We look forward to collaborating with Barefoot Books again to make a lasting impact on under-resourced youth.