Shreveport, La. – United Way of Northwest Louisiana kicked off its “Year of Dolly” campaign on Tuesday with a free public screening of the 1980 comedy “9 to 5” at the Robinson Film Center in downtown Shreveport. The event, dubbed “Dolly Day,” combined entertainment with a celebration of Dolly Parton’s long‑standing commitment to literacy and philanthropy.
Celebrating literacy and community
More than 7,000 children across the region are currently enrolled in Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, a program that delivers a free, age‑appropriate book to each child’s home every month from birth until they turn five. “As of today, we have mailed out 560,000 books since we began partnering with the Dollywood Foundation,” said LaToria Willis Thomas, president and CEO of United Way of Northwest Louisiana. “We are doing our best to continue to raise money and raise awareness about this program.”
Event highlights
The evening began with a cocktail reception that allowed families, local business owners, and community leaders to mingle. After the film, United Way made a special announcement about upcoming literacy initiatives and ways residents can support the Imagination Library.
To further honor Parton’s influence, the Bakowski Bridge of Lights was illuminated in pink for the occasion, creating a festive backdrop along the Red River. The bridge lighting, a popular local landmark, drew additional attention from passersby and social‑media users who shared photos of the pink glow.
Why Dolly Parton’s legacy matters locally
Parton’s Imagination Library has become a cornerstone of early childhood education in Northwest Louisiana. By providing free books, the program helps develop reading skills, fosters a love of learning, and supports parents who may lack the resources to purchase books for their children. United Way’s partnership with the Dollywood Foundation has amplified these benefits, ensuring that even the most vulnerable families receive consistent literary support.
Local educators have praised the program’s impact. “Kids who receive a new book each month are more eager to read and ask questions,” said a teacher at a Shreveport elementary school who has seen the program’s effects firsthand. “It’s a simple gift that makes a huge difference in a child’s confidence and curiosity.”
How residents can get involved
United Way encourages community members to volunteer, donate, or spread the word about the Imagination Library. Donations help cover the cost of books and shipping, while volunteers can assist with local book‑distribution events and literacy workshops.
For those interested in learning more or contributing, United Way of Northwest Louisiana maintains a dedicated website and social‑media channels where updates on the Year of Dolly campaign are posted regularly.
Looking ahead
The Year of Dolly will feature additional events throughout the coming months, including author talks, reading circles, and family‑friendly activities designed to keep the focus on early childhood literacy. United Way hopes these efforts will continue to strengthen families and build a foundation for lifelong learning in the Shreveport community.
By pairing a beloved classic film with a cause that benefits thousands of children, United Way of Northwest Louisiana demonstrated how local nonprofits can blend culture, entertainment, and service to uplift the community.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
