When Kiwanis member Angelo Ciardella first heard about Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, he knew it was a perfect fit for the Kiwanis mission — empowering children to thrive in communities that believe in them.
“The vision of Kiwanis International is that one day, all children will wake up in communities that nurture and support them,” says Angelo Ciardella, Membership Chair of the Kiwanis Club of Windsor. “The Imagination Library is the perfect tool for Kiwanis clubs to add into our service arsenals.”
What started as a single club’s effort in Windsor has since blossomed into a coordinated regional initiative — uniting Kiwanis clubs across Southwestern Ontario to bring free books into the hands of children from birth to age five. Each month, enrolled children receive a high-quality, age-appropriate book addressed to them personally and mailed right to their homes.
Building a Movement, One Club at a Time
Angelo has been described as the driving force behind this growing regional network. His passion and persistence have helped connect clubs, inspire new partnerships, and expand the reach of the Imagination Library across dozens of communities. “I love being able to collaborate with other Kiwanis clubs and bring a common project to fruition,” he says. “It’s an amazing honour to present to clubs, answer questions, and introduce our members to the amazing Imagination Library staff. Sharing the mission and vision of the Imagination Library has been a highlight of my service journey.”
For Kiwanis clubs, the appeal is immediate. “Kiwanians love service,” Angelo laughs. “Once clubs realize the secret sauce of the Imagination Library, it becomes a no-brainer.” Starting with his home club in Windsor, he worked strategically — club by club — spreading what he proudly calls “the Dolly Fever.”
Photos Courtesy Kiwanis Club of Windsor
Turning Challenges Into Impact
Angelo admits that not every club jumped on board right away. Many long-established clubs, deeply rooted in their communities, were hesitant to change course. “Many clubs are well established, which is phenomenal — but that also means they can be set in their ways,” he says. “I remind them that we can’t keep doing what we’ve always done if we expect to grow and meet the ever-evolving needs of youth in our communities.” It only took one club to buy in before others followed.
One standout example is the Kiwanis Club of Chatham-Kent, which has embraced the Imagination Library “in full force.” “Literacy has always been their focus,” says Angelo. “The adoption of the Imagination Library was a natural fit. Their club has seen increased community interest, new members, a more vibrant connection with their community, and real impact — with over 600 children receiving books every month.” The ripple effect has been transformative: families reading together, stronger community bonds, and energized volunteers who see the tangible difference they’re making.
Creative Fundraising and Community Spirit
To fund the program, Kiwanis clubs have unleashed a wave of creativity. “From pasta dinners and trivia nights to euchre tournaments, birthday donations, bus trips, theatrical performances, bottle drives, and memorial gifts — clubs have embraced the full gamut of opportunities to raise funds,” Angelo explains. His advice to other clubs is simple: “Doing the same old same only results in the same old same. I encourage clubs to try new approaches and not be afraid to fail. The worst that can happen is it turns into a learning opportunity.”
For Angelo, the motivation runs deep. “I choose to serve because I have been served,” he reflects. “Giving back to my community is an integral part of who I am. Servant leadership was instilled in me at a young age and keeps me going. I believe we are to leave the world better than we found it — and through serving our children, we can ensure they have what they need to thrive.”
And when he’s asked to sum up the spirit of Kiwanis’ role in one word, he doesn’t hesitate. “Community. Kiwanians all around the world choose to serve their great communities to make them better, safer, richer places to live, learn, and grow. Our partnership with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is the perfect way to continue that service.”
Fueling Momentum Across Canada
The momentum in Southwestern Ontario is undeniable — and contagious.
“Knowing that Kiwanis is doing our part to inspire the love of reading in hundreds of children brings me so much joy,” says Angelo. “Through this service, we expand our own mission — and Dolly’s. This investment in the future of our youth is priceless.”
He hopes this regional movement will inspire other service clubs and Kiwanis districts across Canada. “Every service club has an important role to play in making their communities a better place to live and grow,” he says. “If we can do it, so can you!”