CASA Program and Local Partners Champion Childrens Literacy During Black History Month

The Snohomish County CASA Program has launched a significant initiative during Black History Month, partnering with the Rotary Club of Edmonds and Edmonds Bookshop to enhance children's literacy. By providing a selection of books that highlight Black history, culture, and achievements, the program underscores the importance of representation in literature for young readers. Joelle Kelly, CASA Division Manager, emphasized the project's focus on empowering children and fostering their unique identities. The books were generously donated by the Rotary Club and sold at discounted prices by the Edmonds Bookshop, ensuring accessibility for all ages. CASA volunteers are actively delivering these books to children, using shared reading as a means of building rapport and facilitating meaningful conversations.

Through this initiative, CASA aims to enrich discussions about history and identity, reinforcing the vital role of reading in family connections. Notably, starting March 3, 2025, the books will also be available at the CASA Wonder Room and Connections Center, further extending their reach. This project exemplifies how community partnerships can evolve to address the essential needs of children in foster care.