Our Story

How it all began

The Gilstad Literacy Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, was established on September 22, 2021, by Dr. Dennis and Shawn Gilstad with a steadfast commitment to promoting literacy and fostering a love of reading within our community. Our journey began with a vision to expand access to books and educational resources for children and families, ensuring that literacy remains a fundamental pillar of lifelong success.

Our commitment extends beyond book distribution;

Charlotte County Imagination Library

For ten years, the Charlotte County Imagination Library (CCIL) program was successfully managed by Charlotte Players, Inc., a respected community organization dedicated to enriching lives through the performing arts. Under their stewardship, this local affiliate of Dolly Parton’s iconic free book program thrived, providing thousands of free books to preschool children across Charlotte County and instilling a passion for reading from an early age.

Recognizing the growing need for literacy-focused initiatives and the opportunity to enhance and expand the program’s impact, the Gilstad Literacy Foundation stepped forward to take over the management of the Charlotte County Imagination Library program. With a mission deeply rooted in literacy advocacy, we embraced this transition with enthusiasm and dedication, ensuring that every registered child continues to receive high-quality books delivered to their homes.

As we look to the future...

We remain devoted to expanding our reach and deepening our impact, building upon the strong foundation laid by Charlotte Players, Inc. Together, with the support of donors, volunteers, and community partners, we continue our mission to cultivate a culture of reading and lifelong learning for children in Charlotte County and beyond.

Gilstad Literacy Foundation, Inc. Strategic Plan 2025 - 2027

2025 - 2027 FOCUS

To strengthen Gilstad Literacy Foundation, Inc. as a well-recognized and successful non-profit that efficiently manages the Charlotte County Imagination Library program as the local affiliate of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

Board Adopted: 3/4/2025

KEY OBJECTIVES

GLF DEVELOPMENT & RECOGNITION

GOAL: Expand Gilstad LF visibility in Charlotte County and the Southwest Florida region.

INITIATIVES: • Participate in community events (Chamber, Expo)
• Expand exposure via website, social media, MailChimp, press, speaking, posters
• Consider creating a GLF website linked to CCIL

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS: • Chamber memberships & meetings
• GLF website and Facebook launched
• Press & article tracking
• Social media engagement

CCIL PROGRAM GROWTH

GOAL: Increase new enrollments in the CCIL program by reaching out to parents/caregivers in multiple ways.

INITIATIVES: • Recruit volunteer leader & team
• Partner with Advent Health PC
• Approach Summit Maternity
• Work with OBs & pediatricians
• Engage schools & daycares
• Attend parent-focused events
• Sponsor Chamber events
• Host family events
• Public library outreach
• Follow up with CCIL grads
• Discuss K+ data with schools

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS: • Enrollment tracking spreadsheet
• Event participation logs
• Volunteer leader named

FISCAL SUSTAINABILITY

GOAL: Build and maintain reserves equal to or greater than 6 months of average budgeted expenses.

INITIATIVES: • Apply for grants
• Join recurring fundraisers
• Launch new fundraising events
• Recruit fundraising leader
• Implement Gift Range Chart
• Solicit Book Label & Website sponsors
• Use social media (per audit)
• Network at events for donors

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS: • Document grants & funding
• Fundraising logs & posts
• Fundraising leader named

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