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Nashville, TN, April 4, 2023 - The Phoenix Club of Nashville invested $15,005 to support the launch of Book’em’s Book Mobile program. This effort will include the renovation of a small bus that will expand distribution capabilities, getting more free books to young people throughout Davidson county.
In partnership with the Office of the Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation Book Bus Program, Book Mobile gives Book’em another way to distribute books for ownership to underserved children at times of the year when school is not in session, offering year-round access. The program will also provide literacy programming, such as read-alouds and other activities.
“Book'em is honored and excited to deepen our partnership with Phoenix Club with the receipt of this extremely generous gift,” said Melissa Spradlin, executive director of Book'em. “Your financial and volunteer support is making it possible to create this new program that will serve more of Nashville's economically disadvantaged youth and families with amazing books and literacy activities. The Book Bus will be another fun avenue for Book'em to expand our reach in a creative way.”
In middle income neighborhoods, the ratio of books per child is 13:1, but in low-income neighborhoods the ratio is 1 age-appropriate book for every 300 children. In September, Phoenix Club (led by Whit Murray) approved a $15k grant to be used to support the startup costs to begin a “book bus” that will distribute books to kids in areas where books are not readily available. Since the nonprofit has been a longtime volunteer partner of PCON, the club was thrilled to be able to finally approve its first Venture Philanthropy grant for them.
“Book’em mission of creating a more literate Nashville and instilling a passion for reading amongst children is essential for their development and creativity. Through the Book Bus, they will be able to take this mission directly to the children when school is not in session and host readalouds, distribute free books, and provide Wifi. In doing so, they will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on those who not only have curiosity, but also just need some guidance,” said Whit Murray, vice president of new membership for the Phoenix Club.
Book’em was established in 1989 in Nashville, Tennessee by four local women who sought to improve book access for young people in the area. Their core mission and focus is to foster and improve literacy in the community and to cultivate a passion for reading in the next generation.
About Book’em:
Book’em's mission is to create a more literate Nashville and ignite children’s passion for reading through book ownership and enthusiastic volunteers. bookem-kids.org
Melissa Spradlin ｜ Executive Director ｜ melissa@bookem-kids.org ｜ 615-255-1820
About the Phoenix Club of Nashville:
The Phoenix Club of Nashville is a 100% volunteer-led 501(c)(3) organization of young men with a dual mission of benefitting under-served youth in Middle Tennessee and developing members into leaders in their community and business. phoenixclubofnashville.org
Tim Sears ｜ Marketing & PR｜ marketing@phoenixclubofnashville.org ｜ 417-252-4215
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