Tuesday, November 11, 2025

First R Appreciation Event 2025



I want to recognize the incredible work of the The First R Foundation and their volunteer readers, who bring the joy of books into kindergarten and first-grade classrooms by reading and donating books to students.

This year marks 25 years of First R’s dedication to literacy, and I was thrilled to celebrate at the First R Appreciation Event last month at The Gloucester House.

A special congratulations to Founder Pat Earle, who is celebrating her 90th birthday this year—what an inspiring milestone!

Thank you to all the volunteers who make a difference in the lives of young readers every day - and to Jennifer Orlando, who was awarded First R’s Frances Ferrante Award at this year's event.