MISSION
We are passionate that each child, regardless of ethnicity, religion, social, or income status, has a chance to succeed. We endeavor to help build futures full of promise for underprivileged children through the collection and distribution of FREE, new, or like-new, books and by holding reading events. We partner with pediatricians, schools, preschool programs, such as Head Start, communities, and social-service organizations.
Research shows that there is a 30 million word-gap heard by children by the age of 3 between poor and higher income children. These children are at a huge disadvantage when starting kindergarten. We hope to help to reduce the gap by providing books to the children who most need them.
We will continue to work hard to secure book donations in order to level the playing field.
ESTB
2019
C.L.A.P.
Childhood Literacy Adds Potential
We provide FREE books to children from under-resourced communities in the DMV.
ABOUT US
We are Teresa and Joel Kaplan, founders of C.L.A.P. As the parents of five successful children, we understand the impact reading has on the future of children. We have worked full-time for 4 years for the important cause of Childhood literacy and are dedicated to our work. Children's literacy unlocks the door to a happy, productive life.
OUR IMPACT
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C.L.A.P. has had a major impact on the lives of 1,000's of children by donating books we buy and/or receive from people just like you. In 4 years, we have distributed over 70,000 new or like new books to underserved children in the DMV. In addition, over 15,000 overly loved books have been donated to various waiting rooms.
EVENTS
Find a donation center or book drive event near you. Come out to support the cause and make a difference in the lives of children in the DMV!
Whom We Have Helped
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Children's National Hospital & Anacostia Clinic
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Van Dorn Pediatrics
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Northern Virginia Family Services
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Healthy Families of Northern Virginia
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Title 1 Schools in Maryland & Virginia
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Mary's Centers for Children
- For the Love of Children (FLOC)
- Boys & Girls Clubs
- Medical Care for Children Partnership (MCCP)
- Howard University
And many more...
WE NEED YOUR HELP TO FIGHT CHILDREN'S ILLITERACY
Your book donations go directly to children who love to read in the DMV!
CONTACT US
Contact us to set up a convenient time and place to drop off your gently used or new books for kids. Or, check out our drop off locations for a spot near you.
Phone: 703-461-3166 Cell: 703-346-2672