The Rotary Club of Rock Island and Rotary District 6420 are supporting and partnering with Nika Loves Charities to promote youth literacy opportunities for elementary students in Rock Island County, according to a news release.
Through a series of engaging literacy events held at local schools, clubs and youth organizations, Nika Loves Charities will provide more than 340 students with free books, activity sets, stickers and a stuffed animal from a “stuffie station.” Each event features a dramatic group read-along of a selected children’s book, followed by themed activities that encourage students to connect more deeply with the story.
When space allows, children also enjoy a 20-foot inflatable unicorn and photo wall to enhance their experience.
The 2025 youth literacy series began Sept. 11 at the Boys & Girls Club of Moline, followed by events at Youth Hope (Moline) on Sept. 17, Longfellow Elementary (Rock Island) on Sept. 29 and the Martin Luther King Jr. Center (Rock Island) on Oct. 13. Upcoming events are at Earl Hanson Elementary at the Corn Crib on Oct. 24 and EveryChild (CASA, Moline) on Oct. 28.
Additional events planned through November are with Children’s Therapy Center of the Quad Cities, Bethany for Children & Families, Project NOW Head Start, Rock Island County Children’s Advocacy Center, Youth Service Bureau of Rock Island County and the Rock Island County Regional Office of Education – Early Childhood Program.
Rock Island Rotarian Geno DelPreore, founder and director of Nika Loves Charities, proposed the project to the Rock Island Rotary Club.
“Our partnership with the Rotary Club of Rock Island will help promote literacy and emotional wellness among under-served children in our community,” DelPreore said. “By combining books and stuffed animals, we’re fostering both learning and comfort.”
Rock Island Rotarians are actively volunteering at the events—distributing materials, assisting with activities, and engaging directly with the children.
“This collaboration gives our members the chance to make a hands-on, meaningful impact,” DelPreore added.
About Rotary Club of Rock Island
Established in1914, the Rotary Club of Rock Island (part of Rotary International) has more than 100 members who are committed to making a difference in the community and in communities around the world. The club comprises members from varying professions and backgrounds who come together to enhance the Rock Island community through a variety of service projects.