Volunteers Provide 15,000 New Books to D.C. Kids in Need for National Day of Service

Today, as part of the National Day of Service, thousands of volunteers on the National Mall packed 15,000 brand-new books into bags to be distributed to DC-area students.

The books, including "Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." by Doreen Rappaport, were provided by First Book, one of seven nonprofits featured as part of the National Day of Service.

"It was thrilling to see so many people come out today to do their part to put new books into the hands of kids from low-income families," said Kyle Zimmer, president and CEO of First Book. "We're honored to be a part of the National Day of Service; to show people the many ways they can help their communities through service."

Each volunteer packed two books into a bag, and decorated bookplates with personal messages. The books and other materials were made possible by KPMG, the U.S. audit, tax and advisory firm, through its KPMG's Family for Literacy program.

"The KPMG volunteers were proud to team with First Book to help get 15,000 new books into the hands of children," said Candy Duncan, managing partner of KPMG's Washington Metro Area. "I can't think of a more fitting way to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King."

First Book has distributed more than 100 million books and educational resources to programs and schools serving children from low-income families throughout the United States and Canada. By making new, high-quality books available on an ongoing basis, First Book is transforming the lives of children in need and the elevating the quality of education. For more information, please visit First Book online or follow our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

SOURCE First Book