Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Madison Reading Project
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 2939 S. Fish Hatchery Rd. Suite #100
City: Fitchburg
State: Wisconsin
Postal Code: 53711
Main Phone: 6086650055
Main Fax:
Organization Website: madisonreadingproject.com
Employer ID Number: 47-2077478
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 2/26/2026
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Books
Project Description:

Books for Educators is one of Madison Reading Project’s long-standing core literacy programs and has been serving local educators and students for several years. In 2025 alone, the program served 1,199 K–12 teachers across Greater Dane County with 32,635 brand-new, culturally and linguistically diverse books at no cost. These resources have strengthened classroom libraries, increased student access to inclusive reading materials, and supported educators, particularly
those in under-resourced schools, who often lack funding for new books.
Teacher feedback consistently shows increased student engagement, stronger connections to reading, and more inclusive classroom environments as a result of the program.
Books for Educators is currently funded through a combination of foundation grants, corporate sponsorships, individual donors, and community fundraising campaigns. Additional funding from
the Hermanowski Foundation would allow Madison Reading Project to expand the number of educators served, increase the range of culturally responsive and multilingual titles available, and reach more teachers in under-resourced schools. The investment from The Hermanowski Foundation would build on proven success by sustaining and scaling equitable access to books while deepening the program’s impact on literacy outcomes across our community.

Total Project Budget: 150000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Additional grant funding from Brewers Foundation, Seeds of Hope, Wisconsin Humanities, and others. Additional financial support from business sponsors.

Project Duration: August 2026-June 2027
Geographical Area Served: Dane County
Age Group To Be Served: k-12 Educators

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Emily
Contact Last Name: Wills
Contact Title: Development Director
Contact Phone: 6086650055
Contact Email: emily@madisonreadingproject.com