Since 2004, the PNC Foundation has championed early childhood education through its PNC Grow Up Great program, helping children from birth to age 5 discover their love of learning.
Through a PNC Foundation grant and additional funding from local organizations, the University of Dayton’s Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop launched a community literacy initiative that celebrates creativity and imagination. The workshop purchased 1,000 copies of the new children’s book, Marianne the Maker, and donated them to the Miami Valley Child Development Center (MVCDC), Southwest Ohio’s Head Start agency.
“The kids and staff were so excited and curious about the new book,” said Berta Velilla, president and CEO of MVCDC. “We were able to provide each child with their own copy and added some tips for parents to use as they read Marianne the Maker at home.”
Written by New York Times bestselling author Kelly Corrigan and daughter Claire Corrigan Lichty, Marianne the Maker follows an unstoppable young inventor who loves to create new things rather than spend her time doing routine activities, such as going to soccer practice. The book kindles a creative spark in children by encouraging them to think outside the box and find joy in bringing new ideas to life.
As part of the community literacy initiative, the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop will feature Kelly Corrigan as the opening night keynote speaker at its sold-out March 26–28 conference.
“We can’t wait to welcome Kelly and celebrate the power of stories to spark imagination and creativity,” said Teri Rizvi, founder of the popular biennial workshop. “Thanks to the PNC Foundation and our community partners, writers will be reminded anew how storytelling can inspire children and adults to see the world in new ways.”
Additional support for the initiative comes from The Dayton Foundation, Dayton Children’s Hospital, CBD Advisors, Barnes and Noble, and community advocates Bob and Bernita Daley.
Widely known as “a writer’s Woodstock,” the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop honors the legacy of Erma Bombeck, the great humorist and columnist who graduated with a degree in English from the University of Dayton in 1949. The workshop celebrates humor and human connection through storytelling. It welcomes writers of all experience levels who seek to improve their craft and build community.