WCF Donates Nearly 3,500 Books

Recognizing the importance of childhood literacy, The Whitecaps Community Foundation celebrated “March is Reading Month” by donating nearly 3,500 books to Grand Rapids elementary schools. The book donation will benefit students in kindergarten through eighth grade in ten elementary schools in the Grand Rapids Public School District.

The Whitecaps Community Foundation started their book donation program in 2015, when 300 books were donated to one school in need. In subsequent years, the program has grown considerably to include various schools each year, in an effort to reach as many students as possible. Typically the schools are also visited by Crash the River Rascal, who joins in handing out books and giving smiles and high fives.

Whitecaps Manager Brayan Pena shared (virtually) one of his favorite stories – see it here: Brayan Pena

The Whitecaps Community Foundation, the nonprofit extension of the West Michigan Whitecaps, is a 501c3 organization dedicated to enriching the lives of youth and their families by providing them with access to social, educational and recreational programs that will have a positive impact on their futures. With the help and generosity of community partners and members, the Whitecaps Community Foundation continues to strive to make the West Michigan area a better place to grow, learn, and thrive.

In 2021, through a combination of donations and fundraising efforts, the Whitecaps Community Foundation gave more than $423,000 to the community.  For details on the Whitecaps Community Foundation’s programs and how to participate in the Reading Program please visit us at www.whitecapscommunityfoundation.org or call the Whitecaps front office at 616.784.4131.