First Book Teams Up with the Washington Commanders to Bring Books and Playoff Hopes to Students across the DMV
> Blog > First Book Teams Up with the Washington Commanders to Bring Books and Playoff Hopes to Students across the DMV Jayden Daniels hasn’t been the only star addition to the Washington Commanders organization. This season, First Book and the Washington Commanders joined forces to bring a love of reading and the excitement of football to local students across the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area, creating a partnership that’s making an impact on and off the field.
Celebrating Educators: Tailgate for Teachers
The partnership kicked off during the preseason with the Tailgate for Teachers event, hosted by the Commanders to honor local educators in the First Book Network. These educators, who work tirelessly in classrooms filled with young Commanders fans, were treated to a special game-day experience.
As a community school coordinator, the Washington Commanders’ support for local schools and literacy highlights the vital role of community partnerships in advancing our school mission and vision. Together, we can foster a love for reading, empower students to excel, and create a lasting impact on their success.
Gabriela G, First Book Member
Commanders Read: Sparking a Love for Books
In September, the Commanders Read program launched at a Title I school in Alexandria, VA, with an exciting pep rally and book distribution event. First Book is a supporting partner providing the books and supplies for the Washington Commanders literacy initiative with support from Northwest Federal Credit Union.
Commanders Legends Fred Smoot and Josh Morgan surprised students as guest readers, sharing their love of books and the importance of education. Students got to choose their own book from a curated selection provided by First Book, thanks to the school librarian’s thoughtful input. These personalized picks help ensure that each child has access to stories that would interest them the most.
Playoff Excitement Fuels Literacy Initiatives
As the Washington Commanders continue their thrilling run, after their first playoff win since the 2005 season, the excitement extends beyond the field. First Book is preparing to distribute 3,000 books to students across the region, complete with reading celebrations and surprise moments with the team and their mascot Major Tuddy.
Here at First Book, the excitement of a young student realizing they can own their favorite and often first book is our Super Bowl. We are honored to be the primary nonprofit partner for Commanders Read and blend students’ love of football with their love of reading. Together, we look forward to strengthening classroom libraries across the region with high-quality free books and supporting all of the incredible educators leading classrooms and inspiring young learners.
Dana Bond, Executive Vice President of Strategic Alliances at First Book
Partner With First Book
First Book works closely with a variety of businesses, non-profits, and individuals to promote equal access to quality education for children in need. With our partners, we have distributed more than 250 million books and educational resources. We invite everyone to explore ways to work together to provide even more books and resources to kids who need them.