#United States #New York #NAMI #Macy's #RIF

Macy's Summer Giving Campaign: Empowering Youth Through Literacy and Mental Health

Macy's has launched its summer giving campaign, a remarkable initiative designed to promote youth literacy and mental well-being across the nation. This year, the program has successfully raised more than $2 million in funds through a combination of in-store donations and online contributions. Working hand-in-hand with organizations such as Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Macy’s aims to directly impact the futures of countless children and their families.

A Collaborative Effort for Change

The summer giving campaign reflects Macy's commitment to corporate social responsibility, emphasizing its social purpose initiative known as Mission Every One. By partnering with RIF, the foremost children’s literacy nonprofit in the United States, and NAMI, the leading grassroots mental health organization, Macy's has effectively provided a multi-faceted approach to address two critical aspects of children's success: literacy and mental health.

The funds generated from this campaign will be strategically divided between RIF and NAMI. RIF plans to utilize its share to enhance book access and selection for under-resourced communities, emphasizing social and emotional learning (SEL) by offering free resources and curated book collections. Similarly, NAMI's portion will be directed toward improving mental health education, resources, and youth-focused programs aimed at assisting young individuals and their families in navigating mental health challenges.

Celebrating Educators and Leaders

In conjunction with the fundraising efforts, Macy's also introduced the Advocate for Youth Awards. Celebrated at select store locations nationwide, these awards aim to honor outstanding educators and community leaders committed to fostering literacy and mental well-being among youth. The honorees reflect dedication and inspiration in their roles, impacting students' lives positively.

Some of this year's celebrated educators include:

• - Michele Uwaine: A first-grade teacher in Honolulu, recognized for her innovative approaches to literacy that spark enthusiasm for reading among her young students.
• - Denise Sandoval: A library and IT educator in Dallas, acknowledged for her steadfast commitment to providing transformative reading experiences for students at her Title I campus.
• - Lori Zeman: A media coordinator from Charlotte, honored for her initiatives that have supplied over 9,000 books and engaged families in the reading process.
• - Michelle Hobbs: A TK teacher in San Diego, celebrated for igniting a passion for reading in her students and collaborating with RIF to expand their access to books.

The award events featured engaging activities such as read-aloud sessions, donation of school supplies, and gifting each winner a Macy's gift card, further underscoring the significance of community acknowledgment.

Commitment to the Future