Pasco News
Sponsors needed for Storybook Forest
By Daylina Miller | Suncoast News
Published: January 12, 2013
SPRING HILL - The Early Learning Coalition of Pasco and Hernando counties is seeking sponsors for its 2013 Storybook Forest.Published: January 12, 2013
The fundraising and literacy event will be held from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. April 6, at Crews Lake Wilderness Park, 18739 Crews Lake Drive. It will support Children's Week and early childhood literacy.
Early childhood educators in Pasco and Hernando counties will create interactive displays based on children's novels. Children will learn about the story and create a related make-and-take project at each display.
Last year, the more than 900 people who attended Storybook Forest enjoyed stories such stories as "The Very Hungry Caterpillar," "The Gingerbread House" and "If You Give a Mouse a Cookie."
During the 2013 edition, children will meet such popular characters as Clifford the Big Red Dog, the Berenstain Bears and Olivia the Pig. Children can have their picture taken with the characters for free and will receive a book related to the character.
Children can also take a free ride on the Central Pasco and Gulf Railroad train inside the park.
"One of the most important aspects of this event is that it is 100 percent free for attendees," said Katie Nelson, a communications specialist for the coalition.
There is no entry fee, and the food and entertainment is free, Nelson said. The coalition gives away free books to children up to age 8.
The Storybook Forest is one of hundreds of events held throughout Florida to celebrate Children's Week from April 7-12. This year marks the 18th Children's Week.
"Children's Week activities put a much-needed spotlight on issues facing our children,'' said Children's Week organizer Jason Zaborske. "This is a great opportunity to bring thousands of parents, children, professionals, advocates, community leaders and concerned citizens together to share valuable knowledge and information about children's issues across the state and in our state capitol."
The coalition accepts donations, and that money goes directly to children on a waiting list for subsidized child-care services. Last year's Storybook Forest event raised $400.
Anyone can sponsor the event. Nelson said that businesses typically donate food, items for the children's gift bags, and items for the first-, second-, and third-place winners of the display booth contest.
The Florida Suncoast Safe Kids Coalition will donate a limited number of free car seats for children and will teach the parents how to properly set it up in the car.
The coalition also is working with the Pasco County Sheriff's Office to have kids fingerprinted for free at the event.
For information about Children's Week, visit www.childrensweek.org.
For sponsorship opportunities or information about Storybook Forest, email Bev Doucet at b.doucet@phelc.org or telephone (727) 233-8291.