The May Book Project Brings Literacy and Belonging to Local Schools Amid Challenging Times
The Very Asian Foundation’s May Book Project highlights unique American stories, literacy, and learning.
Arlington, VA (April 27, 2025) — As libraries across the country face shrinking budgets and uncertain futures, the Very Asian Foundation (VAF) continues to invest in literacy and belonging through its signature initiative, The May Book Project (MBP). This April, the MBP arrives at Carlin Springs Elementary in Arlington, VA, and Washington Yu Ying Public Charter School in Washington, DC, offering students an inspiring day of storytelling, community connection, book donations, and celebration of American voices.
Thanks to generous support from Arlington-based Avalon Bay, the day features appearances by New York Times best-selling author Ellen Oh, Avalon Bay CEO Ben W. Schall, and a dynamic roster of volunteer readers including WUSA’s Matt Torres, Mrs. Bakewell’s Rose Bakewell, and Georgetown University student-athletes Kaysen Mahuka-Kaawa and Losini Maka. More than 200 books will be donated Monday with more book donations committed throughout DC-area schools.
At Carlin Springs Elementary, Ellen Oh will present her latest work On The Block, an anthology celebrating multigenerational immigrant families. Meanwhile, volunteers will visit classrooms across kindergarten through third grade, reading books that reflect the richness of American experiences. The event continues in the afternoon at Washington Yu Ying, where Ellen Oh will again present to fourth and fifth graders, and notable community figures like sports journalist Melissa Kim, WJLA’s Joy Wang, and Pamela Yee of Chefs Stopping AAPI Hate will lead readings for younger students.
Since its launch in 2021, The May Book Project has reached approximately 100,000 students across 15 states and the Philippines. Created in response to students’ demands for new books that reflect their school populations, MBP provides vetted book lists, an academic rubric, a community guide, and direct donations of relevant American literature — helping ensure that every child can find a "window, mirror, or sliding glass door" in the stories they read, as described by renowned educator Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop.
“Books have the power to show children they belong," said Soogi Hong, executive director of the Very Asian Foundation. "We are proud to work with communities, schools, and sponsors like Avalon Bay to make a lasting difference.”
The Very Asian Foundation, born from a viral moment that turned an insult into a movement for inclusion, continues to champion belonging and visibility for all voices.
For more information about the May Book Project and how to support its mission, visit www.veryasianfoundation.org/may-book-project.
WHEN & WHERE:
Carlin Springs Elementary School – Monday, April 28, 2025, Morning Session starts at 8 a.m.
Washington Yu Ying Public Charter School – Monday, April 29, 2025, Afternoon Session starts at 12:30 p.m.
WHO:
Ellen Oh, NYT best-selling author (On The Block)
Ben W. Schall, CEO of Avalon Bay
Matt Torres, WUSA
Rose Bakewell, Mrs. Bakewell’s
Kaysen Mahuka-Kaawa & Losini Maka, Georgetown University Student-Athletes
Melissa Kim, Sports Journalist
Larry Scott, Howard University Head Football Coach
Pamela Yee, Chefs Stopping AAPI Hate
For media requests, email michelle@veryasianfoundation.org or 415-886-7025.
