RAS Foundation raises over $50,000 for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, supporting early literacy in regional NSW

The RAS Foundation has announced its 2026 RAS Foundation Charity Brunch raised more than $50,000 for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, an early learning literacy program delivering books to children.

The funds raised at the brunch will help expand access to age‑appropriate books for families across Brewarrina, Walgett, Gilgrandra, and Coonamble, with the aim of improving early literacy outcomes.

More than 180 guests attended the brunch, held at the Sydney Royal Easter Show on Wednesday 8 April, and participated in a charity auction to raise the $50,060.

RAS Foundation Manager Cecilia Logan said she was delighted by the outcome of the auction and the generosity of those who attended.

“The RAS Foundation Charity Brunch is a highlight on our fundraising calendar, providing an opportunity to raise much‑needed funds and shine a light on a regional organisation doing impactful work in the community,” said Logan.

“This year we were honoured to champion Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and raise over $50,000 to provide much‑needed books for children in regional NSW, helping to build early literacy skills.”

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Community Partnership Lead, Ellie Kiely, said they were honoured by the support.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity shown by the RAS Foundation and all guests at the 2026 Charity Brunch,” said Kiely.

“Our mission at Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is to ensure no child misses out on the benefits of early access to books and the development of important early literacy skills. The funds raised will help us continue this work and will specifically benefit children in Brewarrina, Walgett, Gilgandra and Coonamble.”

“Representatives from the participating communities have already shared their gratitude for the care and concern shown, with the funds providing much‑needed books for local children.”

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is an early learning literacy program that gifts free, high‑quality, age‑appropriate books to children from birth to age five, helping families build a love of reading from the very start.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library delivered by United Way Australia brings the magic of reading into Australian homes, kick-starting a lifelong love of reading and creating an evidence-based pathway for a child’s success in later life.

The RAS Foundation thanks all attendees, supporters and partners who contributed to the success of the Charity Brunch and to improving literacy outcomes for children across regional NSW.

To learn more about the RAS Foundation and the various ways to support regional and rural Australia, please visit www.rasf.org.au. 

Media Contacts:

Nicola Dalby

Manager – Communications and Public Relations

M: 0434 579 906 E: ndalby@rasnsw.com.au  

Samantha Cannings

Communications Coordinator

P: (02) 9704 1453 M: 0411 864 836 E: scannings@rasnsw.com.au

About the RAS Foundation:

The RAS Foundation is a registered charity that encourages educational opportunities and helps build strong and sustainable rural and regional communities through a range of targeted grants and scholarships.

Visit www.rasf.org.au for more information on the RAS Foundation.