West Chester Branch of the NAACP Joins With YMCA of Greater Brandywine To Celebrate Education, Empowerment and Engagement

Community-Supported Book Drive Results in more than 200 new books to the Y’s Childcare & Early Learning Centers in Honor of Celebrate 365 

(WEST CHESTER, PA) – Leaders of the West Chester Branch of the NAACP and the YMCA of Greater Brandywine joined together this week to celebrate the power of community and education. The West Chester Branch of the NAACP President, Rev. Dr. Richelle Foreman-Gunter, presented new books to Bertram L. Lawson II, President & CEO of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine. Books were donated by members of the local NAACP chapter as well as the broader Chester County community. 

“We are grateful to members of the Chester County community for giving so generously to the YMCA – because the Y gives so much to our community,” said Rev. Dr. Foreman-Gunter. 

“We are proud to share books with the children in our community because education leads to empowerment. And empowerment leads to engagement – and that’s how we build strong, thriving communities.” 

The Power of Education 
As Chester County’s largest provider of licensed childcare programs, YGBW serves more than 5,000 learners and their families each year and is deeply committed to helping children build a strong foundation for success. 

“Education leads to opportunity for people of all ages,” said Lawson. “Every child deserves access to educational resources that inspire curiosity, build confidence and open doors to a brighter future. Partnerships like this ensure learning goes beyond the classroom, helping children see themselves in the stories they read and inspiring them to reach their fullest potential.” 

Books were collected at YMCA branches, the Community Center and the History Center, with all members of the community invited to contribute. The result is a diverse collection of stories and topics that reflect the richness of our community. 

Celebrating Community, Culture and History 
The book drive marks the first initiative in the West Chester NAACP’s Celebrate 365 program, a year-round recognition of Black history, culture and achievement. 

“Black history is not a month or a day,” said Rev. Dr. Foreman-Gunter. “Our culture is part of American culture. Our history is part of American history. Through Celebrate 365, we aim to spread the spirit of Juneteenth throughout the year in a variety of meaningful ways.” 

Lawson added, “We are honored to accept this donation as our organizations share the belief that education is foundational for learners of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. We thank the West Chester NAACP and all members of the community for helping our youngest learners build a love of reading that will fuel them for years to come.”