By SYDNEY KENT
“It is now 201,256 books,” Ben Renkenberger grinned at the recent growth of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program.
Through Imagination Library, free books are given out to registered kids from birth to age 5 every year in the county. The program was brought to Wells County by previous Executive Director of United Way of Wells County, Pamela Beckford.
“I feel a little like an imposter,” Current Executive Director Renkenberger, said. “This is Pamela’s win.”
Renkenberger said that the work Beckford facilitated and the money she raised during her tenure here has continued to sustain the program until recently.
In October, the Indiana State Library began funding half of the budget for programs across the state. Individuals and businesses also donate to the cause. However, Renkenberger said more funding is needed to support much-needed programs.
Anyone with an interest in supporting the program should contact Renkenberger at 260-824-2599. Checks may be designated specifically to the Imagination Library and can be mailed to the United Way office located at 122 Lamar St Suite 118 in Bluffton.
sydney@news-banner.com
