The Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy (CBAL) and Black Press second annual Reach-A-Reader literacy awareness and fundraising campaigns held throughout the region were a “runaway success,” say organizers.

Volunteers throughout the Columbia Basin and Boundary region, from young hockey players to long-time literacy supporters, to Black Press and CBAL staff, worked together to raise funds for their local community literacy programs, trading newspapers for donations.

“We were amazed at the run-away success of our second annual Reach-A-Reader event,” said Ali Wassing, CBAL Executive Director. “CBAL delivers over 230 programs to over 7,000 learners in the 77 communities we serve. Funds from this event play a key role in building on this commitment. The support of Black Press is invaluable – and we are grateful.”

Valley Echo staff, Columbia Valley Rockies players and CBAL volunteers raised $376.72 for local literary programs by handing out copies of The Valley Echo to the community on October 16.

“It was a fabulous initiative”, said Valley Echo publisher Rose-Marie Regitnig.

CBAL  thanks everyone who supported the Reach-a-Reader campaign. All proceeds will be used to fund literacy programs in the valley, from Edgewater to

Canal Flats. Visit www.cbal.org to learn more.