Our Give Back Program

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​ We believe that when ‘big readers’ surround kids with books, stories,
 words, letters and sounds, they are creating ‘little readers’ long
 before—and long after—they enter the classroom.  Research shows   that the first years of life are critical in developing a child’s early   language skills.  The Wink Kids team hopes to make a difference by   donating books and resources to early literacy programs and by   forging relationships with all those involved in a similar mission.  
Currently we donate a board book to a deserving program for every gift set purchased from our Tiny Reader Collection.

Our Latest Projects

  • Little Free Libraries in western Illinois:  In 2016, we teamed up with a local Rotary and Boy Scout troop in Illinois to make five little libraries a reality.  In the picture on the right, Mary Beth and Teresa present a check to the River Cities Rotary Club.  In addition, a set of baby and toddler books were donated to stock each Little Free Library with plenty of books for children below the age of 5.​​
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  • Spring Forward Program, Church of Peace in Rock Island, Illinois: In 2017 we worked with a local bilingual program in the Quad Cities which serves all ages. At right, Mary Beth reads during story time in the toddler room, and then provides some swag-- books and a little library canvas bag to the children in the class., many who are English language learners. The Tiny Reader Project also provided free books as part of the annual Thanksgiving celebration.
Most of the toddlers in this classroom are English language learners from many different parts of the world.
  • Tales on the Trail- Wink Kids partnered with River Cities Rotary to help sponsor Tales on the Trail, providing a free book for every child that participated in this nature and literacy event. 
  • Ride the River- In 2019, the 35th anniversary of this annual Quad Cities event included a Father's Day family ride along the Mississippi River and a resting spot sponsored by Wink Kids with books and snacks for the kids before they hopped back on their wheels for the return trip!