In a strategic move to adapt to the evolving landscape of community services, the former affiliate of Imagination Library, Barry County has rebranded itself as the Community Care Coalition, Barry County.
The transition began amid the statewide rollout of the Imagination Library program by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The statewide initiative redefined the local affiliate’s scope of work, prompting the organization to redefine its mission and broaden its reach and impact in serving the community.
‘Although the changes to the Imagination Library program were initially met with disappointment by the board of directors, it allowed for an opportunity to explore new avenues for community service,’ said Teresa Phillips, Coalition president. ‘While the name may have changed, the commitment to fostering literacy and serving the community remains steadfast.’
Under the umbrella of the Community Care Coalition, Barry County, several initiatives will be launched, in addition to the continued support of the Imagination Library program, in order to address the multifaceted aspects of literacy and community engagement.
These programs will not only focus on early childhood literacy, like its predecessor, but also extend to encompass adult literacy programs, family literacy initiatives, and community outreach efforts.
The first program to roll out this summer will be the Books on Wheels (Bow-Wow) program spearheaded by board member Cheryl Williams. The Books on Wheels program is a community initiative aimed at providing access to reading materials for homebound seniors.
Through this program, volunteers deliver books directly to the homes of seniors who may have difficulty accessing libraries due to mobility issues or other constraints. Additionally, Books on Wheels will extend its services to facilities such as nursing homes and community centers, ensuring that residents and visitors alike have access to a variety of reading materials.
By bringing books directly to those in need, this program promotes literacy, mental stimulation and a sense of connection to the wider community among its recipients.
“In co-operation with the Barry-Lawrence Regional Library, I am excited to bring library services to the underserved in Barry County,” Williams said.
A second program rolling out in August is the Open Minds Initiative, a collaborative effort between the Barry County Sheriff’s Office and the Community Care Coalition aimed at promoting literacy and personal growth among inmates.
Through this program, a quarterly rotation of books will be delivered to the facility, providing inmates with access to a diverse selection of reading materials for personal enrichment and education.
Additionally, books will be made available within the visitation area, fostering a supportive environment for families and friends to engage in reading activities together during visits.
“I am excited about the Barry County Sheriff’s Office partnering with the Community Care Coalition to form the Open Minds Initiative,’ said Danny Boyd, Barry County sheriff. ‘I feel this program will help inmates realize they have potential to be an active member of our community. It will liven their spirits to have updated books and literature on hand to help educate and enrich their lives. I feel that this will also help with the GED program that will start once we move into the new jail.”
‘We recognize the importance of literacy as a fundamental building block for individual success and community prosperity,’ Phillips said. “Despite the name change, the core values of the organization remain unchanged – a dedication to fostering literacy, promoting education, and serving the needs of the community.” Through the Community Care Coalition, the organization looks forward to continuing its efforts of making a positive difference in the lives of Barry County residents.’
As the Community Care Coalition, Barry County begins this exciting new chapter, the board invites community members to connect with them for more information. People may reach out via email at cccobc@yahoo.com and stay updated on upcoming programs by following the organization’s Facebook page.
“We look forward to engaging with you and working together to serve our community better.”
The Community Care Coalition board members are Phillips; Kiley Stringer, secretary; Dean Ferguson, treasurer; and Williams, assistant secretary/ treasurer
