Press release from the POP Project:
50,000 strong, but there is still much work to do.
Asheville nonprofit, the POP Project, turns 10 years old and is celebrating by hitting a few milestones this year. The first happened on May 12, when POP reached 50,000 lifetime books delivered. That total amounts to nearly a quarter million dollars worth of books distributed to places with needs throughout our community and state, all at no cost to the recipients.
“This is definitely not an overnight success story,” said Executive Director Jim MacKenzie. “Reaching 50,000 books delivered speaks to our dedication to the mission, our magnificent board members and volunteers, and a vision the community supports.”
The second milestone is yet to come.
For 2019, the POP Project is more committed than ever to ensuring the books they are entrusted with are used for constructive, personal expansion. Through the “10 for 10” Book Giving Campaign, POP is trying to impact the lives of 10,000 people by delivering 10,000 free books to area organizations by the end of their tenth year.
“We’ve never donated this many books before in a 12-month period,” said MacKenzie. “But the goal is worthy and we decided to challenge ourselves. I want to say it’s all hard work, but giving books is so much fun—it’s basically a year-long party.”
To date in 2019, POP has delivered more than 3,500 books toward that goal. With nearly half the year behind, there are still many books to be delivered by the year’s end. Community members and organization leaders in need of free books are asked to reach out to POP with their requests.
“If you agree that everyone is entitled to a good book, perhaps there is a place at POP for you,” said Sarah Giavedoni, Director of Donations and Volunteers. “POP is always seeking book donations, especially children’s books, as well as volunteers, book counters and categorizers, little free library builders and managers, and drivers. Please contact us if you feel our mission could become your mission.”
“As a 100% volunteer-led organization, we can’t meet any goal without the help of the community and many behind-the-scenes volunteers,” said MacKenzie. “We’d love to have your help on our ‘10 for 10’ campaign!”
To learn more about POP’s “10 for 10” Book Giving Campaign, become a sponsor, or monitor POP’s progress, visit thepopproject.org/10-for-10.
About the POP Project
The POP Project is an Asheville, NC-based 501(c)3 nonprofit working to spread the power and possibilities of literacy through a greater access to books. POP works with other literacy and advocacy agents in Western North Carolina to improve community members’ access to books, and ultimately their ability to succeed. Because everyone deserves a good book.
For more information, contact: The POP Project at aPOPproject@gmail.com.
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