Connecticut Humanities (CTH) has received $15,000 from The Stocker Foundation to expand Book Voyagers in Hartford during the 2019/20 school year. Funding will provide engaging and educational literature opportunities to families and children in libraries, schools and community organizations.
CT Humanities is the state’s non-profit affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). CTH’s vision and mission are to foster an engaged, informed Connecticut by encouraging curiosity, understanding and critical thinking, providing leadership through grants, partnerships and collaborative programs with cultural, historic and civic institutions that tell our stories, build community and enrich our lives.
The Stocker Foundation was founded in 1979 by Beth K. Stocker. Their mission: “improving the quality of life for children, youth and families, strengthening communities where trustees reside.” On an annual basis, The Stocker Foundation distributes $3 million to tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Since inception, 6,136 grants have been awarded to 932 nonprofits totaling more than $60 million.
Book Voyagers will forward The Foundation’s mission by sponsoring book discussions, storytelling sessions, writing and drawing workshops, performances and other high-quality educational programs specifically designed to help students become stronger readers and more critical thinkers. Special focus will be given to students in grades one to three to support grade-level achievement.
Programs will be held September through June with sites recruited in summer 2019. CTH will partner with the Hartford Public Library, several Hartford Public schools and community organizations such as the Boys and Girls Clubs of Hartford (BCGH). Lina Osho-Williams, Youth and Family Services Manager at Hartford Public Library sends her thanks to The Stocker Foundation “for enriching Hartford families with outstanding literacy experiences through the Book Voyagers Series. These programs enable our families to nurture the love of reading in their children as well as build inter-generational relationships between parents and their children.”
