Money to encourage inclusivity among youth

For the City Times

The Inclusivity Starts with Kids fund recently distributed monies to area libraries and school libraries.

The goal is to increase book/media collections that help young people think and talk about differences such as discrimination and racism.

Libraries receiving funds include: Portage County Public Library; Madison and McDill elementary schools; PJ Jacobs Junior High School; Stevens Point Area Senior High School; Charles Fernandez Alternative School; Amherst elementary, middle, and high schools. Fund advisors are reviewing requests from other area schools as well.

“I have always advocated that books are a great way to breach barriers and build bridges,” said Kristen Zastrow, Tomorrow River District Library media specialist. “It is so important for children to see themselves reflected in what they are reading – to know that they are included, and important and free to be themselves. Just as important is using books as a way to expand minds and introduce topics that our students may have never been exposed to.”

“With all the negativity around us this summer, I was pleased to find a chance to support a unique effort focused on our youth,” said fund donor, Peggy Oliver. “Books make a difference.”

The Inclusivity Starts with Kids fund is a local grassroots effort that began in July. Gifts to the fund can be made online at tinyurl.com/InclusivityStarts or through the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin by visiting www.cfcwi.org.