Book drive helps people in homeless shelters throughout Kalamazoo County

We all go through intense experiences, struggles and a variety of challenges throughout our lives. Imagine doing so without a place to call home, or the without the support of loved ones who understand your condition. This is the reality of many homeless residents who exist in our communities.

Local non-profit organization Take Life By The Page is taking donations of reading and writing materials such as books, notebooks, and journals for children and adults living in homeless shelters throughout Kalamazoo County. The intent of these donations is to promote healthier living and provide educational opportunities for those in shelters.

One of my professors at GVSU once told our class about the life of one his mentors, Lee Thayer, who taught his class while he was a graduate student. Thayer liked to tell his class, "All of my best friends all dead." He would then pause to enhance the effect. The class would look at him with shock and sadness. No one ever knew what to say. Then Thayer would quickly add, "They're all books!"

You never know what will influence a person's life. I can attest to several books that have made a substantial difference in the way I approach my life. It's important we enrich the lives of those who need our support the most.

Anyone is welcome to bring used or new books, new notebooks or journals, and writing supplies to the Parkview Hills Clubhouse at 3707 Greenleaf Circle, Kalamazoo. There are also donation drop boxes available at Fifth Third Bank, 3311 Greenleaf Blvd., and at Vallar Salon, 1112 E. Centre Ave., Portage.

For more information, call Ashley McIntyre at 269-760-7899.

Read the full article: http://www.mlive.com/living/kalamazoo/index.ssf/2010/09/book_drive_helps_people_in_hom.html