Thanks to the generous support of sponsors and attendees, the proceeds of the Book Bash have brought new books to children in need. The Annual Book Bash was created in 2008 by a committed group of Pennsylvanians deeply concerned about the future of Pennsylvania’s children. It was held to coincide with the Pennsylvania Society’s annual New York weekend. The first and second annual events were supported by numerous appointed and elected officials.

In 2008, we welcomed Ambassador Marilyn Ware, Governor Edward Rendell, former Secretary of Homeland Security and Governor Thomas Ridge, United States Senators Arlen Specter and Robert P. Casey, and Mayors Michael A. Nutter and Luke Ravenstahl. In 2009, we added to our list by welcoming Governor Bill Richardson and Ambassador David Girard di-Carlo (Ret.). Through everyone’s support and commitment in 2008, the event raised enough funds to bring more than 25,000 new books to children in need and in 2009 the number rose to over 50,000 new books!