Executive Director Nat Shook joins Big Jake's show to discuss a new initiative by United Way of South Central Illinois designed to support teachers in enhancing or building their classroom libraries. Teachers can now request specific books they need for their students, ensuring every child has access to the educational resources necessary for a successful learning experience.

This program was inspired by our joint venture with the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce, where we discovered the significant need for books in classroom libraries. United Way Reads aims to fill this gap by providing essential educational materials to teachers.

How You Can Help:

Book Donations: Check our website and Facebook page for a list of requested books. If you have any of the listed books and wish to donate, please drop them off at:

📍 123 S 10th St., Suite 202, Mt. Vernon, IL.

Amazon Wish List: Prefer to purchase books online? Visit our Amazon Wish List for a complete list of requested books. Your purchase will be sent directly to our office, ready to be distributed to teachers in need.

Teachers: You can apply for books directly on our website or by clicking the following link: https://forms.gle/mmNb3inTWR2RPFaZ8.

By supporting United Way Reads, you are directly contributing to the educational success and future of our community’s youth. Together, we can ensure that every child has the resources they need to thrive. Thank you for your generosity and commitment to making a difference!

 

Ag Literacy Coordinator at the Jefferson-Hamilton County Farm Bureau, Lucille Schlablach stopped by the show. We discuss their upcoming pancake breakfast and the importance of teaching our young people where their food comes from and farmers/agriculture.

 
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Dale from RHHD and Kevin from Sleep in Heavenly Peace joined Big Jake's show this morning to discuss an upcoming bed-build event at the dealership. SHP is an organization that builds and delivers beds to children ages 3-17 who don’t have one. Their current coverage area covers Marion, Clinton, and Jefferson counties in Southern Illinois. Check out their Facebook page or shpbeds.org for more information. 

 
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It’s time for Market Days at Veterans Park in Mt. Vernon! Market Days is the second Saturday of May, June, August and September from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Join LoLo for our live broadcast this Saturday starting at 9am as we kick off the first weekend of Mt. Vernon Market Days with a radio party. Enjoy indoor and outdoor vendors with crafts, specialty items, flea market finds and more. Get your fair food fix from a variety of food vendors and have fun with a different theme each month! In May we celebrate Mother’s Day! The first 200 ladies to stop by the information tent receive a special gift. Visit enjoymtvernon.com for more information.  

 
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