Franklin County Ferst Foundation

Franklin County Ferst Mission

We believe that every book placed in the hands of a child

is a gift that will ultimately benefit not only the child, but

also our community.

Franklin County Ferst Pledge

100 percent of our funds are used to support early literacy

in Franklin County.

What is the Ferst Foundation?

● A nonprofit, community based organization● Supplies books to children ages birth through 5

years in Franklin County at no cost to the parents● Age appropriate books delivered to the homes of

participating children● Includes a helpful newsletter for parents● Started by Robin Ferst in 1999, hence the name

“Ferst Foundation”

Franklin Co. Ferst Statistics

● As of March 2014, 292 children receive books each month in Franklin County.

● So far in 2014, 175 new children have signed up.● But...1,240 Franklin County preschoolers are

eligible for the Ferst Foundation books.● The Franklin County Ferst commitee is made up of

volunteers from the school system, businesses, and our community.

Why does Ferst matter?

“The development of early literacy skills today for children birth to 5 — especially in lower socioeconomic

and dual-language families — can determine their chances for academic and professional success

tomorrow.”

Bobby Cagle, commissioner for Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning

Why does Ferst matter? (continued)

Economic impact:● Low literacy workers cost Georgia 7 billion dollars

per year.Developing life-long learners:● By getting age-appropriate books into the hands of

children and parents earlier, we believe we are supporting a lifetime of successful learning with a strong foundation in reading.

How can I commit? Payroll Deduction

● Your business or school system has decided to allow payroll deductions!

● Any amount is appreciated.● This continual support provides a base of income to

supply children with books and allows us to sign up more children!

● Please see a Ferst representative after the presentation

to fill out a card...it takes about 30 seconds!

How I can commit? Donation

● A one time gift of $28 supplies one child with books for one year.

● Many people and organizations donate monthly or quarterly.

● Please see a Ferst representative for the donation cards if you are interested.

● Or you can mail your contribution to:PO Box 99

Carnesville, GA 30521

Current Franklin County Ferst Supporters

● Employees of Franklin County School System● Alpine Pioneer RESA● Ty Cobb Healthcare System● GA Power● Franklin County Chamber of Commerce ● Lavonia Chamber of Commerce● Lavonia Friends of the Library● Royston Friends of the Library● Lavonia Welcome Neighbors● Lavonia Garden Club● Athens First Bank● TalentForce● Dozens of individual families in Franklin County

“Educate to graduate begins with Ferst,”

Dr. Ruth O’Dell, Superintendent, Franklin County School System

Ann Bowman, volunteer story reader, with Emilee Patrick, Franklin County Ferst committee member, and a recipient of Ferst Foundation books at our annual literacy event!

Contact Information for Ferst

● Email: franklincountyferst@gmail.com● Website: franklincountyferst@shutterfly.com● Address: PO Box 99/ Carnesville, GA 30521● Facebook: Like us at: Franklin Ferst