Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: VIRGINIA CHILDREN’S BOOK FESTIVAL
Legal Name (if Different): ELEVEN PICTURES LTD
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 1166 MORTON ROAD
City: KEYSVILLE
State: VA
Postal Code: 23947
Main Phone: 434-390-1962
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://www.vachildrensbookfestival.org/
Employer ID Number: 20-4143989
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/23/2024
Requested Amount: 5000

Project Title: Igniting a Generation of Readers: Expanding Literacy Access Through Interactive Experiences
Project Description:

The Virginia Children’s Book Festival (VCBF) is a cornerstone initiative igniting a passion for reading in children (grades PreK-12) across the Commonwealth. Our mission directly aligns with The Charles and Joan Hermanowski Family Foundation’s focus on empowering children – we provide essential tools for success through immersive literary experiences.

Held annually in October, our vibrant, three-day festival offers a dynamic platform. Over 100 interactive workshops, author presentations, and book signings featuring celebrated children’s book authors and illustrators bring stories to life. These engaging sessions go beyond simple storytelling, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression through hands-on activities.

Uniquely Impactful:

VCBF prioritizes reaching underserved communities in rural Virginia. We believe every child deserves access to world-class literary experiences. Renowned authors and illustrators visit these communities, sparking a love for reading that may not exist otherwise. This direct engagement fosters positive attitudes towards literacy, leading to more reading time and a lifelong connection with books.

Beyond the Festival:

VCBF’s impact extends year-round. The READ Cart program brings curated book selections to community events, while partnerships with organizations like American Girl provide free workshops and book distributions.

Measurable Results:

We take our impact seriously. Quantitative and qualitative evaluations consistently demonstrate increased interest in reading, improved attitudes towards literacy, and greater engagement with books among participants.

A Sustainable Future:

VCBF thrives through partnerships with community organizations and sponsors. With your support, we aim to further expand our reach, bringing the joy of reading to even more Virginia children. By investing in VCBF, The Charles and Joan Hermanowski Family Foundation can play a vital role in fostering a generation of passionate readers and shaping a brighter future for Virginia’s youth.

Total Project Budget: 185000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): The Rea Charitable Trust, Virginia Foundation for the Humanities, Greater Lynchburg Community Foundation, Longwood University, Robert Russa Moton Museum, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, and more.

Project Duration: 12 months
Geographical Area Served: Virginia
Age Group To Be Served: preK-12

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Charlotte
Contact Last Name: Farley
Contact Title: Grant Writer
Contact Phone: 5408193015
Contact Email: grants@vachildrensbookfestival.org