(Shreveport, LA) — United Way of Northwest Louisiana (UWNWLA) joins communities around the world in mourning the loss of Dolly Parton, whose life, generosity, music, and commitment to children touched generations.
For UWNWLA Dolly’s legacy is especially meaningful. Through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, approximately 6,700 children across Northwest Louisiana currently receive a free, age-appropriate book each month.
Following Dolly’s passing, her family shared a simple request for those wishing to honor her memory:
“In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.”
UWNWLA is inviting Northwest Louisiana to help fulfill that wish by supporting the Imagination Library and continuing the work that meant so much to Dolly throughout her life.
A donation of $50 can provide books to one child for an entire year, giving that child the opportunity to build a home library of their own while developing a lifelong love of reading.
“Dolly had a remarkable way of bringing people together around something that matters so much — giving children the opportunity to learn, grow, and dream,” said LaToria W. Thomas, president and CEO of United Way of Northwest Louisiana. ” She has been one of our most impactful community partners, and one of the most meaningful ways we can honor her is to continue the work she loved. Every donation helps put books into the hands of children right here in Northwest Louisiana and keeps Dolly’s dream alive for another generation.”
Dolly launched the Imagination Library in 1995 with a simple but powerful vision: inspire a love of reading by making sure children have books of their very own. Through the local program, that vision continues in homes throughout Northwest Louisiana.
Those who would like to honor Dolly’s legacy can make a gift through United Way of Northwest Louisiana’s Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Book Club. Donations through the Book Club help sustain the local Imagination Library program and put books into the hands of Northwest Louisiana’s youngest readers.
Ways to Honor Dolly
Give in Dolly’s Memory: Make a donation to help sustain Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Northwest Louisiana.
Give a Year of Books: A $50 donation can provide one local child with books for an entire year, helping build early literacy skills and preparing children to enter kindergarten ready to learn, grow, and thrive.
Share Dolly’s Legacy: Encourage friends, family members, and others who loved Dolly to honor her memory by supporting the program she created to inspire generations of young readers
UWNWLA will also share additional opportunities in the coming weeks for the community to come together and celebrate Dolly’s life and legacy. A special community celebration is being planned for September 25, with additional details to be announced soon.
Dolly spent her life showing that generosity can change lives. Here in Northwest Louisiana, her legacy arrives on doorsteps every month in the form of a book with a child’s name on it.
By honoring her family’s wishes and supporting Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, Northwest Louisiana can help make sure that legacy, and Dolly’s belief in the dreams of every child, continues for generations to come.
To make a gift in Dolly’s memory and support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in Northwest Louisiana, visit:
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library- Book Club
About United Way of Northwest Louisiana
United Way of Northwest Louisiana mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. True to our founding spirit, whenever there is a need in our region, United Way is there. We bring a comprehensive approach to every challenge—actively listening and responding to local needs. Our reach across ten parishes means we can share innovations and scale impact to improve lives throughout Northwest Louisiana. From strengthening local resilience to advancing healthy community, youth opportunity, and financial security, we’re working toward a future where every person in every community can reach their full potential.
To learn more, visit www.unitedwaynwla.org.