Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Radiothon raises over $32,000 — so far

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Radiothon has raised more than $32,000, with donations still open until the end of September.

The Fort St. John Literacy Society, in partnership with Moose Media, the parent company of Energeticcity.ca, hosted the day-long radiothon on September 17th at Safeway.

The event aimed to raise $40,000 in support of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which delivers free books to children from birth to age five.

As of September 18th, the fundraiser has brought in $32,255, putting organizers more than 80 per cent of the way to their goal.

“We are so proud of our community,” Chris Walker, program director at 100.1 Moose FM, told Energeticcity.ca. “Together, you helped raise $32,000 during the Radiothon, money that means nearly 700 local kids will continue receiving free books every month.

“This isn’t just about books. It’s about giving parents the joy of reading with their children, and giving kids the tools to learn, dream and grow.”

Top donors to date include:

• Fort St. John Family Practice: $12,500
• Pembina Pipeline: $5,000
• Urban Systems Foundation: $2,750
• AltaGas: $2,500
• Home Hardware: $2,000
• AMA Rentals: $1,500
• Fort St. John Co-op: $500

The Fort St. John Family Practice’s donation comes from no-show fees, which patients have to pay when they don’t show up to or cancel an appointment.

According to the literacy society, the clinic donates 100 per cent of these fees to charities and non-profits every year.

The clinic also donated $8,000 to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library last year.

Last year, the inaugural event raised nearly $38,000, supporting more than 600 local children with almost 7,000 free books.

Donations can still be made at the Fort St. John Literacy Society’s website.