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New to First Book?
Join us to connect with thousands of fellow educators and access exciting educational events and resources for you and your students.
Find the tools to support every child you serve. Start Here
New to First Book?
Join us to connect with thousands of fellow educators and access exciting educational events and resources for you and your students.
In Spring 2027, 32 grown-up teams will go head-to-head in a single-elimination ping pong tournament, helping to bring thousands of new books to Canadian kids in need.
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Pongapalooza is First Book Canada’s signature ping-pong tournament to raise funds and build awareness on the importance of quality education. At First Book Canada, our mission is to transform the lives of children in need by leveling the educational playing field. We provide new, high-quality books to children who might otherwise have none of their own.
The night will include a variety of games, appearances by over 40 authors; a fun evening for corporate professionals and those in the book publishing industry to let loose and have some fun — food, drinks, games and a chance for PONGA-glory — all for a literary cause where we can make a difference together.
When: Spring 2027 (final date & time to come)
Where: SPiN Toronto (461 King St West, Toronto)
Thanks for your consideration to support the magic of reading in Canada.
For more information, please contact Olivia Stone at ostone@firstbook.org.
You can join us in this endeavor by sponsoring a company Team and/or sponsoring a Teacher-team from a GTA high-needs school. Each team will be championed by a Canadian Author ‘Coach’.
Team Sponsorship investment: $1,500 per team of 4 (including +4 spectators for each team to fill out the cheering section!)*
*Note: Additional spectator tickets can be purchased for $50, registered prior to the event Team registrations are eligible for a $1,250 charitable tax receipt.
In addition to Pongapalooza, we welcome anyone throughout the country to participate in the Bookshelves for Better Silent Auction! All proceeds go directly to supporting First Book Canada programming, and putting brand-new books into the hands of kids who need them most.
Place a bid, outbid a friend, or make a straight donation. Every dollar supports our work with schools and community programs, so more children can experience the excitement of choosing a book that’s truly their own.
The Bookshelves for Better Silent Auction is open from October 20th to November 3rd. Check back here on October 20th to browser our items and place a bid!
With generous support from our sponsors, First Book Canada is elevating the quality of education for children in need on a permanent, sustainable basis – but we cannot do it alone. Our partners in getting life-changing books to kids represent some of the smartest, most generous organizations across the for-profit and nonprofit sectors, and we want you to join us in this fun ping pong event. Help us reach thousands of Canadian children who want to experience the joy of reading and owning their very own first book.