PHX Reporter

Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) and Southwest Human Development (SWHD) are collaborating for the 15th year of the bi-annual Festival of Tales. This community literacy event is sponsored by Phoenix-based law firm Engelman Berger and offers activities like storytelling, arts and crafts, face painting, live entertainment, and more to promote literacy among families.

Since its start in 2009, the Festival of Tales has drawn thousands from Maricopa County, distributing over 40,000 books. The partnership with SWHD began in Spring 2010, significantly broadening the festival's impact by providing additional books. Engelman Berger's support enhances PVCC's literacy programs and connects families with valuable resources.

Jake Adams, SWHD’s Chief Development Officer, highlighted that donors contribute between $40,000 and $75,000 annually for early literacy programs such as this festival. "Working with kids aged 0-5 at SWHD," Adams said, "we know that achieving an education is only possible for many parents with young children because of the affordability and flexibility of community colleges like PVCC."

Meggin Kirk, director of PVCC’s Education Program, stated: "We share a common goal—uplifting the lives of children, families, caregivers, and the communities in which they live."

The event not only provides books but also fosters cultural understanding and community connection. In 2019, it received two awards from the Maricopa County Community College District recognizing its contribution to the community.

The upcoming event is scheduled for December 7th at PVCC’s Union Hills campus.