The excitement of poetry filled the air as Greater Mankato Area United Way and the Olseth Family Foundation kicked off their ninth annual project to provide local fourth-grade students with a treasured book. This year, more than 1,600 copies of Shel Silverstein’s Where the Sidewalk Ends are being distributed to fourth graders in Blue Earth, Le Sueur, Nicollet, and Waseca counties.
At Hoover Elementary School, students Bria Pinero and Camden Alven Boelter were eager to receive their own copies of the book, following a summer safety talk given by local police and fire department representatives.
“Poetry, it can be funny, it can be serious. A poet tries to rhyme, but it also means he’s speaking out to you from inside his soul,” said Boelter, reflecting on the depth of the poetic form.
Pinero shared her own connection to the book, revealing that her favorite poem is “Sick,” which she has read before.
The project is made possible by funding from the Olseth Family Foundation, which allows United Way volunteers to deliver the books each year. Barb Kaus, CEO of the United Way, explained that the timing of the book distribution aligns with the curriculum, as poetry is a key part of students’ learning at this stage.
“This book has just become a part of writing creatively for these students. It’s really important for us to encourage creative thinking and inspire a new perspective on writing,” Kaus said.
Looking ahead to next year, Kaus shared that United Way is planning to make the 10th anniversary of the program extra special, potentially inviting former students who received the book in previous years to join the celebration.
Fourth-grade teacher Margo Becker praised the program, noting its lasting impact on the students.
“I think when a child can hold the book in their hands, take it home, explore it, and share it with their family or younger siblings, it enriches their life and the lives of those around them,” Becker said.
As the program continues to grow, it remains a cherished tradition for both students and educators in the Mankato area.
