Marcella Foundation Hosts BookMode Kindle Giveaway to Spark Reading at Sierra House Elementary

On February 13, the Marcella Foundation’s BookMode program hosted a successful Kindle Giveaway at Sierra House Elementary School for second-grade students. Thanks to the hard work of volunteers and community partners, 70 students were given their very own Kindles, opening up new opportunities for reading and learning.

Second Graders dressed up as superheroes for BookMode.

This event was especially impactful, as over half of the students involved don’t have books at home. Teachers and volunteers helped guide the students through setting up their Kindles, ensuring each child was ready to explore their new digital library.

In one classroom, students enjoyed 40 minutes of uninterrupted silent reading, highlighting the positive impact of access to books. Parents expressed their appreciation, with one noting that their child would treasure the memory of this day for years to come.

The event also featured senior leadership from Edgewood, who introduced their new Hearts and Heritage program, emphasizing their commitment to supporting educational initiatives. "Community involvement is at the heart of Edgewood Tahoe. It enhances not only the guest experience but also the place we proudly call home. Our team members are passionate about supporting local initiatives, and hosting this year’s volunteer orientation for the Marcella Foundation—set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Tahoe—was a true honor. We are also excited to launch our 'Hearts and Heritage' campaign, which will help underscore our deep commitment to service and giving back. As part of this commitment, we also offer every team member a paid volunteer day, reinforcing our dedication to making a meaningful impact in our community." Angela Vaughn-Likewise, Director of People and Culture, Edgewood Tahoe Resort

School board members Valerie Mansfield, Laurie Kemper, and Bob Anderson were also present, reinforcing the importance of fostering a love of reading and supporting literacy in our community.

Thanks to the dedication of our volunteers and community partners, the event was a great success. The Marcella Foundation remains committed to ensuring every child has the resources they need to develop a lifelong passion for reading.