The American Hockey League’s Milwaukee Admirals’ Power Play Foundation has generously committed to donating $15,000 to expand Aurora Medical Center – Kenosha’s Reach Out and Read program. This program promotes childhood literacy and health development and is supported by trusted pediatricians who give their time, talents and expertise to help parents prepare their children for success in school and life.
Pediatrician Dr. Diane Gerlach, who facilitates the Reach Out and Read program at Aurora Kenosha, says she’s thrilled to partner with the Admirals on this initiative and for the opportunity to extend the benefits to area families.
“This philanthropic partnership underscores our shared vision with the Admirals to invest in the well-being of children and their futures,” says Dr. Gerlach. “We both aim to make a lasting, positive impact on the community by enhancing educational opportunities and supporting strong kindred relationships and the development of young minds.”
Harris Turer, Milwaukee Admirals Owner and CEO couldn’t be more enthusiastic about supporting this early literacy program and positively transforming the minds of children.
“We started the Power Play Foundation to help financially support nonprofit organizations in southeastern Wisconsin, especially those that serve youth through programs and activities,” says Turer. “Since its founding in 2006, the foundation and team have raised millions of dollars through various fundraising events, promotions and direct donations. The Reach Out and Read initiative is truly special and I hope it helps give confidence to children that with a little imagination, anything’s possible.”
Before the Admirals’ special gift, the program at Aurora Kenosha was funded through donations from Reach out and Read Wisconsin and Dr. Gerlach herself.
“The early years of a child’s life are paramount,” she says. “The Reach Out and Read program champions the cause of cultivating enriching child-parent interactions through books, playing a significant role in children’s cognitive and social skills while also promoting family bonding. I’m grateful for the Admirals’ backing of this program and allowing me to reach even more children to continue making a difference in our communities.”
Each year, Dr. Gerlach sees 250 to 300 patients ranging in age from just a few weeks to five years for their routine well-child visits. During those visits, each child is given a book, and by age 5, they receive a total of 13 books. More than 1,000 books are given out each year through Dr. Gerlach’s office.
Inspired by the Milwaukee Admirals’ and Dr. Gerlach’s contribution? Consider making a gift that could impact your community, too.