Foundation for San Mateo County Libraries 5K for $5K Challenge
Support Foundation for San Mateo County Libraries 5K for $5K Challenge
Money raised to help libraries “get back up and running” this year.
This week the Foundation for San Mateo County Libraries (FMSCL) Board Members are taking on a 5k for $5k Challenge to help libraries “get back up and running”. Board Members will be raising funds by completing a total of 5 kilometers or more exercising and reaching out to their networks to raise funds via Givelively: https://secure.givelively.org/donate/foundation-for-san-mateo-county-libraries/fsmcl-5k-for-5k
From July 3 to 10 board members will be sharing their 5K Challenge experience via social media. Join us in supporting them as they run, walk, swim, bike and more – to raise funds that will help support youth & families and lifelong learning.
According to Raquel España, executive director, FMSCL, “During shelter in place, the libraries have re-imagined programs and services to ensure equitable access to the entire community. San Mateo County Libraries added thousands of books, movies, music and classes online, and even used the 3-D printers to make healthcare workers’ safety gear. Through the generous support of our Board and communities, the 5K for $5K Challenge will help us to raise funds for essential programs as we get through these challenging times.”
Programs that will be supported by the 5K for $5K include:
Summer Learning and Healthy Meals
Weekly STEM programs are offered online for children. SMCL is also hosting Grab & Go meals at East Palo Alto for families in need.
School Support
With back to school expected to look different this year, funding provides online resources for students and computer/Wi-Fi combos for schools to share with families in need.
Community Literacy Programs
Many community members depend on libraries to help increase their literacy skills. SMCL provides continued access to English language learning programs with online sessions that have been filling up each week.
Online Collections
The libraries have added a significant amount of online resources (eBooks, audio and streaming content) over the past three months. They will need to continue to add online material moving forward.
Closing the Digital Divide
The need for laptops, Wi-Fi hot spots and computer/Wi-Fi combos continues to increase for community members without stable access to the internet. There has also been continued use of Wi-Fi at libraries, after increasing the range to extend to parking lots since March.
When asked why they are participating? Here is what Board members had to say about the 5K for $5K Challenge:
“I’m supporting because I love all the great programs San Mateo County Libraries offers to kids in our communities, particularly in the underserved areas of our County…” – Chris, Board Member FSMCL.
“I’m passionate about creating equitable access to San Mateo County Libraries’ resources. Through the 5K for 5K, I’m raising money to support online STEM summer programs and Wi-Fi and computer access for schools and families.” – Richa, Board Member, FSMCL
“The intersection of Covid-19, shelter in place, and high rates of unemployment creates a critical need for our libraries in providing services and resources for families hit especially hard at this time. The funds I raise will go to libraries that are supporting schools with online resources, computers and Wi-Fi access.” – Tanya, Board Member, FSMCL
Stay Involved
We encourage you to support the 5K for $5K Challenge and stay tuned for updates from our Board Members. They will be rallying their communities, networks and social media to raise funds. Together, we will ensure the continued strength of San Mateo County Libraries and invest in the power of learning to enrich the lives of everyone in our communities. #investinsmcl #5kfor5k @FoundationSMCL #loveyourlibrary
Gifts made to the Foundation for San Mateo County Libraries support innovative programs and services of San Mateo County Libraries Joint Powers Authority in the following communities: Atherton, Belmont, Brisbane, East Palo Alto, Foster City, Half Moon Bay, Millbrae, Pacifica, Portola Valley, San Carlos, and Woodside and unincorporated San Mateo County.
Donations to libraries not included on this list should be made through those libraries’ dedicated fundraising organizations.