Dolly Parton’s commitment to helping children inspired a statewide effort to give back in September, with the East Tennessee Foundation joining organizations across Tennessee in celebrating Give Like Dolly Day.
The September 25 campaign, organized by the Dollywood Foundation, encouraged communities to honor Parton’s philanthropic spirit by supporting nonprofit organizations that make a difference in children’s lives.
In Knoxville, the East Tennessee Foundation invited residents to participate through its Give Like Dolly Fund, which will provide grants to nonprofits serving children throughout the region.
The September 25 date was a nod to Parton’s classic hit “9 to 5.”
“Dolly Parton’s lifelong commitment to helping East Tennessee communities and children around the world aligns well with ETF’s mission to make lives better and communities stronger,” said Dr. Keith Barber, president and CEO of the East Tennessee Foundation.
“Dolly was a true role model in philanthropy, and the East Tennessee Foundation is privileged to honor her legacy.”
Middle Tennessee reports fundraising success
The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee reported raising $234,380.40 through nearly 250 donations during its September 25-27 Give Like Dolly campaign.
Those contributions will support 20 nonprofit organizations and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Middle Tennessee, demonstrating how communities embraced the opportunity to help children.
The reported total represents Middle Tennessee’s campaign, not the East Tennessee Foundation’s fundraising effort. A final East Tennessee total has not been confirmed.
A legacy rooted in East Tennessee
Parton’s dedication to children has deep roots in Sevier County, where she founded Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in 1995 in honor of her father, who could not read or write.
The program has grown into an international literacy initiative that mails free, age-appropriate books each month to enrolled children from birth to age 5.
Local partners help fund the program and encourage families to enroll, making community support essential to its continued success.
Give Like Dolly Day extends that spirit of generosity beyond literacy, encouraging donations and volunteer efforts benefiting children in communities around the world.
How East Tennesseans can help
Although the designated giving day has passed, residents can learn more about the East Tennessee Foundation’s Give Like Dolly Fund and its mission to support children throughout the region.
The East Tennessee Foundation serves 25 counties and works with donors and nonprofits to strengthen East Tennessee communities.
For more information about the fund, contact Lisa Ford, vice president of strategic engagement and communications, at lford@etf.org.
Families interested in receiving free books for eligible children can learn more about Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.
The campaign serves as a reminder that Dolly Parton’s legacy is measured not only in songs and performances, but also in the opportunities created for children through the generosity of others.
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