The Diversity & Equal Opportunity Network’s (DEON) first annual Book Drive is well under way. In less than a month, they have collected more than 200 books and over $750 in cash and gift card donations. DEON wishes to extend sincere thanks for the generosity and support shown throughout the community so far from all of the businesses, families, and individuals that have contributed to the goal of collecting at least 250 books to enhance the Evesham township school’s libraries.
Community members still have the opportunity to make an impact and give to the drive by selecting books from DEON’s Amazon wish list and having them delivered directly or making their purchase from their preferred retailer and dropping off in person to DEON’s Book Drive drop bin conveniently located at Evesham Township’s Municipal Building, in the lobby right outside the Library entrance doors.
May 21st, DEON’s Book Drive midway point, marks the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, a day set aside by the United Nations as an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the values of cultural diversity and to learn to live together in harmony. The UN’s website states, “the aim is, on the one hand, to incorporate culture into all development policies, be they related to education, science, communication, health, environment or cultural tourism and, on the other hand, to support the development of the cultural sector through creative industries.” The overall significance of DEON’s Book Drive is very thoughtful and displays the passion and dedication the advocacy group brings in their efforts to increase diversity, inclusion, and equity within the Evesham Township School District.
To celebrate the nearing finale of DEON’s First Book Drive for ETSD, the event has been changed to Saturday June 19, 2021, and is being held in conjunction with Evesham Township’s First Annual Juneteenth Celebration that is focused around unity. This free public event will take place at Marlton’s Memorial Park (1010 Tuckerton Road, Field M3) from 3 pm – 7 pm for the entire family to enjoy. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend a fun-filled afternoon with music, art, food, and activities.
DEON would like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Justin Smith (ETSD Superintendent), Aneesh Kanthan (ETSD BOE), along with all other involved school administration staff for their ongoing liaison and willingness to nurture their essential partnership. DEON’s thanks extends graciously to Evesham Township for their joint collaboration on the upcoming Juneteenth event. And again, DEON greatly appreciates the community support in strengthening the Evesham Township K-8 schools.
