Imagination Library affiliate says it has delivered about 190,000 books; partners urge business and community support

Representatives from the Imagination Library affiliate and partner organizations described local impact and urged continued support. A presenter identified in the transcript as Jennifer Arnaiz said the affiliate "started in 2015" and that "we have delivered more than a 190,000 books to children in Montgomery County." She also said the program currently serves "approximately 5,000 children in the county who reside in 14 different ZIP codes."

Partners at the meeting emphasized the program's low per-child cost and the need for further investment. Susan Greif, identified as a cofounder and board member, said, "That $32 pays for 12 books to go directly to each child's home." Kevin Beverly, introduced as a former CEO and business leader, urged private-sector engagement: "These are your children. Stay on top of this. Don't lose this." Speakers framed continued community and business investment as necessary to expand enrollment toward the affiliate's longer-term goal of reaching all 65,000 county children.

Several nonprofit and county partners present included the Children's Opportunity Alliance, Easterseals serving D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, and local advocates for kindergarten readiness. Presenters noted program scale (local enrollment and graduates) and asked the community to support ongoing expansion.