To promote literacy in our community, Phoebe employees kicked-off the season of giving by donating more than 200 new and gently used books to be distributed to local organizations.
 
A majority of the books were delivered recently to Dr. Donna Edmond-King, a pediatrician at East Albany Pediatric Center, to aid in her ongoing early literacy mission.  She works with a national literacy group called Reach Out & Read, a non-profit organization that trains and supports medical providers to work with families to develop essential early literacy skills. At East Albany Pediatric Center, the children’s waiting room offers books and other reading materials to help pass the time, but there is one difference – Dr. Edmond-King encourages families to take a book home to grow their personal libraries.
 
"The children that are served at East Albany Pediatric Center are very grateful for the generous book donation from Phoebe. This donation will assist us in sustaining our Reach out & Read program at the center,” said Dr. Edmond-King.
 
“Dr. Edmond-King is making a difference in children’s lives every day, not only by providing quality healthcare but also by promoting literacy. Helping children gain a lifelong skill is a tremendous asset to our community,” Joel Wernick, president/CEO of Phoebe Putney Health System.
 
According to research presented by the American Academy of Pediatrics, reading proficiency by third grade is the most significant predictor of high school graduation and career success, yet two-thirds of U.S. third-graders lack competent reading skills. The study also reports that children who are read to during infancy and preschool years tend to develop superior language skills when they start school and are more interested in reading.
 
Additionally during Georgia Pre-K Week (October 5-9), Wernick read to the K-4 classes at the Family Tree child development center. Other special guest readers during the week included Susan Harper, Bright from the Start board member, Angie Barber, Network of Trust director and VOICES for Georgia’s Children board member, and Jennifer Almeida, Phoebe web designer.
 
The book drive is the first of a new, ongoing project called “Phoebe Gives.” Employees who donate items are encouraged to support their favorite sports team by wearing game day gear on select Fridays. The initiative creates a team spirit atmosphere with employees coming together to serve their community beyond the healthcare setting.