Despite the challenges during two years of pandemic restrictions, Ferst Readers of Henry County was able to celebrate the delivery of a quarter million books at their 2022 Spring Luncheon held May 10 at Refinery Hill near McDonough.
“It was particularly exciting this year since we had to cancel our luncheon in 2020 and 2021. Everyone just seemed eager to gather again and support a good cause,” said Doris Griffin, chair of the Henry Ferst chapter.

Twenty-seven tables were decorated with the theme of children’s books to fit in with the Ferst mission of providing age-appropriate books to Henry County preschoolers. Currently, about 1750 children are receiving a book by mail every month.

Davida Morgan Washington, president and CEO of Ferst, was guest speaker at the event. She noted the care taken in the selection of books for each age, recognizing Kathy Pillatzki, Director of Henry County Library System, a member of the Ferst Readers book selection committee. Washington emphasized the importance of parents engaging in conversation with children from the earliest age, utilizing helpful tips in the parent engagement newsletter which accompanies each book.

She also reflected on the value of confidence building–the confidence gained by children who become familiar with books, and confidence gained by parents who see clearly the impact of meaningful engagement with their children. In some cases, she noted, the program is fostering adult literacy, as many parents are learning alongside their children.
“United Community Bank is proud to support Ferst Readers of Henry County,” said Wayne Lowrey, executive vice president, who emceed a “quarters trivia” at the event to bring in extra funds to celebrate the quarter millionth book.

Those attending were also invited to consider joining The Henry Hundred, a group of citizens who pledge to support Ferst with an annual gift of $100 or more. Heather Hammonds, a member of The Henry Hundred who has volunteered with Ferst for a number of years, said the program became more real to her when her own son began receiving the books. “I knew right away that I wanted to give the gift of books to other children,” she told the audience.

It costs $36 to send books to one child for a year. Ferst Readers of Henry County’s Facebook page and website offer opportunities to donate year-round.

Ferst Readers of Henry County is grateful for sponsors, community leaders, local businesses, civic organizations, school system employees, and citizens that contributed to make this event a success. Through community generosity the program is making plans to resume its pre-pandemic level of sending books to 2,000-plus children every month.