Local 10 Big Book Drive helps distribute more than 27,000 books since May

PEMBROKE PARK, Fla. – Since the Local 10 Big Book Drive in May, more than 27,000 books have been distributed to South Florida nonprofits serving children.

In June, just before classes went on summer recess, Local 10 distributed thousands of books to the Children Services Council in Broward County. At our My Future, My Choice Town Hall at Miami Norland Senior High, every teen and child in attendance received a brand new book.

In July, Local 10 participated in the S.E.E.K. Foundation's 5th Annual "Get Hip and Fit Fair."  

The event featured members of the Miami Beach Police Athletic League interacting with about 600 kids from dozens of local nonprofits. The kids engaged in boxing demonstrations, sports and even science activities.  Local 10 set up a booth and invited every child to select their very own brand new book to take home.

Also in July, Local 10 was invited to speak at the Girls Empowerment and Mentoring Summer Arts Program (G.E.M.) at the Women's Park in West Miami-Dade. 

G.E.M. girls, ages 10 to 15, gathered to learn more about the inner workings of a local television news station.  After a question and answer session, each young lady got to choose an age-appropriate, brand new book to read over the summer. 

In August, Local 10 joined Believers of Authority Ministries at its 7th Annual Back to the Hood Youth Forum. 

The purpose of the event was to reach local youth and inspire them to put forth their very best for the upcoming school year. This year’s event took place at Elizabeth Virrick Park in Coconut Grove. 

Some 300 kids from the local community gathered to hear speakers offer powerful life experiences, as well as dance, have a hearty lunch and choose a brand new book to take home.  The kids had an opportunity to select from classics such as Cinderella to popular science-fiction thrillers like Star Wars. The event ran from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and organizers say it was well received among all the attendees.  
  
Last week, Local 10 joined forces with Operation Homefront Back-to-School Brigade to distribute hundreds of books to the children of active duty military personnel. 

The books were distributed simultaneously at two locations, Williams Army Reserve Center in Miami and Homestead Air Force Base.  

And on Friday, Local 10 teamed up with former Miami Dolphins Offensive Lineman, Vernon Carey, and The Vernon Carey Foundation to give more than 30 kids a brand new book for back-to-school.

The Foundation treated the children to a sneaker shopping spree at Dick's Sporting Goods in Aventura. 

Local 10 will continue distributing new books throughout the 2017-2018 school year. Stay tuned for reports on Local 10 News and local10.com.