November 27, 2009

Smith School of Business donates eight libraries through Shanghai fundraiser

WHO’S GIVING: University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business. W.R. Grace, Black & Decker and Under Armour

WHO’S RECEIVING: The Library Project, a nonprofit organization that donated books and libraries to underfinanced schools and orphanages in China

WHAT’S BEEN GIVEN: $6,000 to build eight libraries in China

BACKGROUND: The money raised at the Smith School’s Team Maryland Thanksgiving Charity Fundraising Dinner in Shanghai will help build eight libraries in China. Nearly 150 people attended the fundraising dinner Nov. 24. Corporate sponsors – many of them Maryland-based companies such as Black & Decker and Under Armour – provided cash gifts and products for auction. Through donations and ticket sales, sponsors and participants ensured that the event drew funds equal to the amount needed to construct eight libraries. The following day Team Maryland, which consisted of 70 alumni and students, ran in the fundraiser. Donations will go toward books, furniture, supplies and librarian training at schools in Anhui Province, Maryland’s sister state in China. The Library Project has a goal to construct and equip more than 80 libraries for orphanages and elementary schools in rural China by 2008 and 350 libraries by 2010.

A FEW WIRDS FROM THE SPONSOR: “Business leaders need to be socially responsible leaders,” says Howard Frank, dean of the Robert H. Smith School of Business. “The Smith School is committed to providing opportunities for students to have an impact on the environment and humanity as well as to share resources that have a positive impact on China and China’s development.”

About The Library Project

The Library Project is dedicated to improving rural education in China and throughout the world by providing children with access to libraries, literacy programs, and teacher training. Since 2006, they have benefited over a million children and teachers in more than 3,000 schools. Their programs include Reading Rooms, Reading Corners, Literacy Bags, and STEAM Boxes, all designed to create educational spaces where children can learn and grow. The Library Project is committed to measurable impact and continuous support for rural elementary schools, kindergartens, orphanages, community centers, and the home. For more information, visit www.library-project.org.

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