Our events are thoughtfully designed with one goal in mind: empowering children to develop a love of reading. Whether it's singing and dancing to an author’s song or recording a parent’s comforting voice as they read to their child, each experience is designed to create meaningful moments with lasting impact.
In partnership with the Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness, Inc. (GLAD) and Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD), Gordon Philanthropies distributed more than 500 books to children and families attending GLAD's Love and Literacy Across California 2025 Resource Fair.
Award-winning children's author Barney Saltzberg surprised students at Marlton School during PJ’s and Read-In Day with a special reading of Crazy Hair Day!
Following the devastation caused by the Los Angeles fires, Gordon Philanthropies donated children’s books to A New Way of Life’s Fire Relief Event, supporting Altadena families as they began rebuilding their lives.
Susan Burton — Founder, A New Way of Life (ANWOL), holding a copy of Vashti Harrison’s award-winning book, BIG, donated by GP
“The Teachers and Books program has been incredibly beneficial for our teachers and, most importantly, our students here at Wilcox Elementary.”
“As children read, they step outside of their world and experience life from another perspective.”
David Shannon, Author of No, David!
Looking Ahead
In just four years, Gordon Philanthropies has reached meaningful milestones through thoughtful strategy, strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to literacy and opportunity. Our work is guided by intention, allowing us to invest where it can make the greatest difference for children and families.
Looking ahead, we are focused on deepening our impact through listening and collaboration During 2026–2027, Gordon Philanthropies will dedicate a year to learning alongside school communities, consultants, and nonprofit partners This period of exploration will help us better understand how scholarship can most effectively support students and families facing financial insecurity.
As our efforts evolve, we remain committed to staying closely connected to our partners and communities This ensures our work remains responsive, relevant, and effective
Ongoing Programs
Sent With Love: A holiday audiobook initiative that fosters family connection through shared reading
Children’s Libraries: Continued book replenishment in partnership with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and design of new libraries in collaboration with California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
Kids & Books Pediatric Hospital Reading Program: Providing books and comfort to children receiving medical care
Kids’ Comfort Corner: A welcoming space that supports children during visits to local police stations.
Gordon Philanthropies is guided by a belief in the potential of young people and the power of literacy to open doors Advancing this work requires reflection, adaptability, and a willingness to explore new ideas
Together, we move forward with purpose, optimism, and a continued commitment to serving children and families.
IN THE NEWS
FEATUREDON:
PBS News “A Brief But Spectacular take on connecting through reading”
1.2 million National Viewership
ABC7 “Kids’ Comfort Corner Opens in Southeast Police Station”
NBC4 — “Kids’ Comfort Corner Opens at LAPD Station”
LA This Week “Kids' Comfort Corner: Creating Comfort in Crisis” Telemundo 52 “Inauguran Biblioteca Infantil en Estación del LAPD” EmpoweringChildren,OneBookataTime
352,137 National Viewership
NBC4 “Barney Saltzberg Surprises Students at Marlton School”
130,000 Viewers per Broadcast
“The Teachers and Books Program has transformed Loren Miller Elementary School by igniting a love of reading. We are deeply grateful to Gordon Philanthropies for inspiring our students.”
Jaza Williams, SSS Counselor at the Los Angeles Unified School District
EmpoweringChildren,OneBookataTime
MeetOurTeam
Our team is a dedicated group of professionals united by a shared commitment to literacy and educational opportunities for all students. Each member brings expertise, care, and purpose to the work of expanding access to books and learning opportunities for children and families across our communities.
