The resolution recognizes the Conway Kiwanis Bookcase for Every Child project for its significant contributions to enhancing literacy and student retention rates among preschool children enrolled in the federal Head Start program. Since its inception in 2005, the project has provided personalized oak bookcases, along with a starter set of gently used books, to over 1,000 children aged four and five from low-income families. The initiative was founded by Jim Davidson, with key support from former Conway Police Chief Randall Aragon and other community members, and has evolved to include oversight by the Kiwanis Club of Conway.
The resolution highlights the project's commitment to promoting early literacy, which is crucial for the educational success of participating children. It also acknowledges the collaborative efforts of various local organizations and individuals, including donations from local businesses and community members, to support the construction of bookcases and provide additional resources such as stuffed animals and personalized bookmarks for each child. The House of Representatives expresses its appreciation for the project's impact and plans to present a copy of the resolution to Richard Plotkin, the current chair of the project.