‘Amazed’ and ‘Motivated’: Response to the Big Book Sale Impact Session
Natalie Appleton
How did it go? Read on to hear some of the responses from volunteers who joined our recent impact session—and, if you missed out, watch for yourself (passcode u9lHu2d. including the period at the end)
An ‘Impactful’ Impact Session: Calgary Reads Big Book Sale 2023
One might assume that for many of the 1,400 volunteers who bring the Calgary Reads Big Book Sale to life—the draw to give so much time (10,000+ hours)- would be a love of books and the energy of collaborating with many other readers.
But for many, what’s just as important is how the Big Book Sale proceeds support the community- specifically, early literacy right here in Calgary. When the sale was led by Calgary Reads the non-profit, that connection was clear. Now that the sale is being stewarded by Rotary, we wanted to help volunteers understand how proceeds continue to help local children become stronger readers.
So, how has the nearly $500,000 raised at the 2023 sale been spent?
On Nov. 14, Rotary Club of Calgary – Downtown hosted two zoom sessions titled to walk volunteers through:
- Who the Calgary Reads childhood literacy seed partners are
- How 2023 proceeds were spent to fund seed partner projects
- What 2024 sale proceeds could support next
Led by Rotary Big Book Sale Transition Team Chair Steacy Pinney, the sessions were attended by an engaged and excited group with great questions and feedback. Here are just a few comments that capture the spirit of the conversation.
“It is motivating to us to know where the money goes.”
“It’s been energizing to see that momentum continue after the sale.”
“Every year I’m just amazed by the energy and commitment of our volunteers.”
“It takes great leaders to inspire this movement.”
We reminded everyone that the CalgaryReads.com website is a great place to learn more about the seed partners and how sale proceeds have supported some incredible and impactful projects.
Thank you to those of you who popped in to be a part of these sessions!
Interested in watching the session? Click HERE to view the zoom recording (**use code u9lHu2d. - don't forget the "." at the end)
We are looking forward to seeing all of you serve as volunteers at the 2024 upcoming sale. Watch for opportunities to sign up individually or as part of our Rotary Club of Calgary Team.