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321 Dick Street
Suite 107
Fayetteville, North Carolina 28301
9104831179 (910)483-1179

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Unlocking a Brighter Future: Every Child Deserves a Book!

Young girl reading book with imaginations around her

Can you imagine a community where every child, regardless of race, status, or income, has the chance to achieve educational excellence? Picture your child reaching their full potential, supported by a caring community. Now, envision every child born in Cumberland County going home with their very first book.

To us, this vision isn’t just a dream; it’s a possibility we can achieve together. At United Way of Cumberland County, we are committed to making this dream a reality through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. This wonderful program inspires a love of reading by gifting free books to children from the moment they are born until they enter Kindergarten.

But this initiative is about more than just distributing books. It’s about creating a foundation for lifelong learning. Research shows that children who are read to daily hear, on average, 1.4 million more words than those who aren’t. This early exposure to language and literature can have a profound impact on a child's cognitive development and future academic success.

Starting November 1st, with the help of our local medical professionals, 100% of children born in Cumberland County will leave the hospital with their first bookThe Little Engine that Could, in hand. 

Can you imagine the ripple effects of nurturing a generation that loves to read? We can.

Together, we can create a community where every child has the tools to imagine a brighter future for themselves. Children who are passionate about books are more likely to explore their imaginations, dream big, and strive for greatness. They become empowered to envision a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

Join us in this mission. Let’s unlock a brighter future for every child in our community—one book at a time! 

Our Impact In 2022/2023

  • People Helped

    171,013

  • Volunteer Hours

    4,601

  • Funds Granted

    $1,019,474

  • Volunteers

    789

United Way of Cumberland County
321 Dick Street
Suite 107
Fayetteville, North Carolina 28301
9104831179 (910)483-1179
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