Jerome, age 9, was given his first book by RIF at his school. But he did more than accept it and give a shy thanks. Instead, he carefully selected it, touched the cover ever so gently and held the book in his arms like it was his best friend. He then went home and read it over and over, according to his grand mom, who told us that he even took it with him to bed each night.

To know that this child has figuratively and literally embraced his love of reading helps inspire us to reach more kids just like him. In fact, last year we reached 20,000 children in Pittsburgh, giving away over 60,000 new books. With your help we can reach even more. Your donation, however small or large, will make a difference.

Thank you for helping Jerome travel to a whole new world. When he's old enough, he'll look back and realize that generous people like you, who he never met, believed in him enough to reach out and help him on his journey to discovery.

Reading opens doors, warms the heart and expands the mind. You know that as a valued donor to RIF. Thank you for helping us to reach new children each year.