09/03/2026
Through her dedication to expanding access to books and educational opportunities, Dolly Parton inspired countless individuals and demonstrated how one person can make a lasting difference around the world.
For us, honoring her legacy means supporting the organizations in Central Massachusetts that share her commitment to literacy education and lifelong learning. Just as she championed reading and educational opportunities in Sevierville and beyond, these highlighted Webster Five Foundation grant recipients are helping people of all ages learn, grow, and thrive in our communities.
👨👩👧👦 Reach Out and Read, Northeast promotes early literacy by partnering with pediatric care providers to encourage shared reading and stronger family connections. Through its Worcester and Shrewsbury programming, the organization helps children develop the skills and relationships they need to thrive.
📖 Literacy Volunteers of Greater Worcester empowers adults through culturally compassionate English language education. Through free ESOL classes, individualized tutoring, and workforce readiness programming, they help New Americans build language skills, access resources, and pursue new opportunities.
🏛️ Friends of the Gladys E. Kelly Public Library provides volunteer and financial support to the Webster Public Library, helping expand access to programs, resources, and services. Webster Five Foundation funding supported the construction of the new library and continues to support the Friends’ mission, creating a lasting community resource for generations to come.
🎓 WEC The Worcester Education Collaborative advances educational excellence by connecting students with hands-on learning opportunities. Its Woo-Labs program engages more than 1,300 students each year through project-based learning experiences that support academic achievement and social-emotional growth in after-school and summer programs.
👩🏫 Edward Street supports young children by investing in the educators and caregivers who play a vital role in their development. Through its Master Teacher Coaching Program, the organization provides embedded job training and individualized professional development to early education and care providers, helping strengthen the quality of care and learning opportunities available to young children and families across Central Massachusetts.
