World Book Day: The Gift of Stories

Hello, my name is Mark Cutler, and this is my first time with Libraries For Kids International. This has been an extraordinary event. I’ve learned so much about the impact being made through the generous support of everyone gathered here tonight. There are children in Africa who now have the opportunity to read for the first time, and I am so thankful to be here and witness such a moving experience. We are helping create opportunities for children to learn, to read, and to build a brighter future. Thank you all for everything you do.

Mark Cutler, Senior Relationship Manager, Coastal States Bank, Beaufort County, South Carolina

My name is Kika Otieno, and I have been involved with Libraries For Kids through their CEO Laura Winkel. This is my second year, and it has been great. It sends me back home and reminds me of the impact they are making in the lives of children in Kenya. Seeing the difference Libraries For Kids International is making means so much to me. I pray and hope that this work continues, and I will forever be committed to supporting this mission. Thank you.

Kika Otieno, Former Kenyan Student now Data Analyst, San Antonio, Texas

Hello, my name is Carrie Hirsch, and I am with the Technical College of the Lowcountry’s Culinary Institute of the South. We wholeheartedly support Libraries For Kids International and were honored to donate several items to tonight’s auction. I attended as a guest last year, and I am delighted to be here again this year. This event is truly special and unlike anything else. Having lived on Hilton Head Island for 22 years, I can honestly say there is no other event like it, and no one holds a candle to what Libraries For Kids International has created. The Lowcountry is the most philanthropic community I have ever had the privilege to call home, and I am proud to be a part of it.

Carrie Hirsch, Event and Engagement Coordinator at the Culinary Institute of the South, Bluffton, South Carolina

We are Steve and Julie Janning, owners and operators of Coastal Luxury Real Estate Rentals on Hilton Head Island. This was our first time attending the Libraries For Kids International event, and we had an absolutely wonderful experience. The evening was incredibly informative, and we truly enjoyed the speakers, the videos, and the opportunity to meet so many passionate and inspiring people. Learning more about the organization’s mission and seeing the impact of its work firsthand helped us better understand the tremendous value Libraries For Kids International is creating for children across Africa. We left feeling inspired, grateful, and excited to support such a meaningful cause. This is an event we will remember, and we look forward to being part of it again in the future.

Steve and Julie Janning, Owners, Coastal Luxury Real Estate Rentals, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina