First Book®
In June 2007, Pi Beta Phi and Pi Beta Phi Foundation announced its corporate partnership with First Book, an international nonprofit organization founded in 1992 with a single mission: to give children from low-income families the opportunity to read and own their first new books. Together, through innovative programs such as First Book Speed Read™ and the Local Literacy Initiative, First Book and Pi Beta Phi are committed to bringing new books to children from low-income families in communities across the United States and Canada. Pi Phi and First Book donated 1.5 million brand-new books since the beginning of the partnership. For more information about First Book, visit www.firstbook.org.
How can I Support the Partnership and Fight Illiteracy:
- Fraternity Day of Service
The theme for the 2010 Fraternity Day of Service was Make Your Mark for Literacy. Members helped generate 50,000 new books for children in need by conducting events to customize bookplates. For every bookplate that was decorated, First Book donated one book to a child from a low-income family. This event was held annually on or near March 2, celebrating the birthday of beloved children’s author Dr. Seuss®.
- Visit The Literacy Site
The Literacy Site uses online advertising to support charitable causes. Visitors can participate by clicking an online button that helps generate new books for First Book as a result from online advertisers. With a simple, daily click on the “Click to Give” button, visitors help provide free books to kids in need. Make The Literacy Site your homepage—every click counts in the fight for literacy.
- Host a First Book Speed Read
This exciting fundraiser allows people of all ages to speed read as many words as possible from a children’s book in just 15 seconds. Anyone can participate, whether as a guest reader, sponsor or donor. Funds generated through chapter, club and individual donations help First Book and Pi Phi provide children in need with new books. Check out the Speed Read section of this website.
Fundraising Ideas:
There are several different ways you can raise money for the partnership. Click here to download a list of fun fundraising ideas.