We’re thrilled to share some exciting news: the Virginia Beach Library Foundation (VBLF) has been selected as a United Way of South Hampton Roads Certified Agency for the 2026–2027 cycle. This designation reflects a shared commitment to accountability, impact, and community-centered service—and it marks an important milestone in strengthening access to knowledge, opportunity, and lifelong learning across Virginia Beach.
What does it mean to be a United Way Certified Agency?
United Way certification is more than a badge—it’s a rigorous process that evaluates an organization’s governance, financial stewardship, program effectiveness, and commitment to equity. Certified agencies meet high standards for transparency and measurable outcomes, ensuring that community investments are used responsibly and deliver real impact. For VBLF, this recognition affirms the Foundation’s role as a trusted partner dedicated to advancing literacy, education, and community enrichment in Virginia Beach.
Why this matters for our community
Public libraries are more than places to borrow books. They are hubs for early literacy, workforce readiness, digital access, and civic connection. Through programs that support children and families, expand access to technology, and create inclusive learning spaces, the Virginia Beach Library Foundation helps ensure that every resident—regardless of age or background—has the tools to learn, grow, and thrive.
United Way’s certification amplifies this work. As a Certified Agency, VBLF is better positioned to collaborate with regional partners, engage workplace giving campaigns, and connect donors with high-impact initiatives that align with United Way’s focus areas. The result is a stronger, more coordinated approach to meeting community needs.
A partnership rooted in shared values
The partnership between VBLF and United Way of South Hampton Roads is grounded in common values: equity, collaboration, and measurable impact. Together, we believe that investing in education and access to information is foundational to building a resilient community. This certification underscores a mutual dedication to using data, best practices, and community voice to guide our work.
As a 2026–2027 United Way Certified Agency, the Virginia Beach Library Foundation looks forward to deepening partnerships, expanding volunteer engagement, and scaling programs that make a lasting difference. From early literacy initiatives and summer learning to digital inclusion and lifelong learning opportunities, the Foundation remains focused on meeting people where they are—and helping them get where they want to go.
We’re honored by United Way of South Hampton Roads’ confidence in our mission and excited for what’s ahead. Together, we’re building a community where knowledge is accessible, opportunity is shared, and everyone has a chance to succeed.
Virginia Beach Library Foundation is awarded 10K from Pizza Hut Foundation – Slice of Literacy
The Virginia Beach Library Foundation (VBLF) is proud to announce it has been awarded $10,000 from the Pizza Hut Foundation through its Slice of Literacy initiative. This generous investment will directly support the Foundation’s 100 Books Before Graduation Program, helping inspire a lifelong love of reading and learning among students in our community.
Fueling a love of literacy—one book at a time
The 100 Books Before Graduation Program encourages students to build strong reading habits by setting an achievable, motivating goal: read 100 books before graduating. Through access to high-quality, age-appropriate books and engaging literacy experiences, the program helps children strengthen reading skills, boost confidence, and discover the joy that comes from storytelling and knowledge.
With support from the Pizza Hut Foundation, more students will have the opportunity to participate—especially those who may face barriers to accessing books at home. The funding will help provide books, program materials, and incentives that keep students motivated and excited about reading throughout their academic journey.
The Pizza Hut Foundation’s Slice of Literacy initiative is dedicated to improving access to books and literacy resources for children nationwide. By investing in community-based organizations like the Virginia Beach Library Foundation, the Foundation helps ensure that children are equipped with the tools they need to succeed in school and beyond.
This award recognizes VBLF’s commitment to advancing literacy and its proven ability to create meaningful, measurable impact through library-based programs. Literacy is foundational to educational success, workforce readiness, and lifelong learning. Partnerships like this one allow the Virginia Beach Library Foundation to expand its reach, deepen its impact, and collaborate with like-minded organizations that share a belief in the power of education.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Pizza Hut Foundation for their support of the 100 Books Before Graduation Program,” said the Virginia Beach Library Foundation Executive Director, Kimberly Knight. “This investment helps us put more books into the hands of children and empowers families to make reading a joyful, everyday habit.”
Looking ahead
With this $10,000 award, the Virginia Beach Library Foundation will continue to strengthen literacy pathways for students across Virginia Beach—supporting early readers today and confident graduates tomorrow. As the 100 Books Before Graduation Program grows, VBLF remains committed to ensuring every child has access to books, encouragement, and opportunities to succeed.
Virginia Beach Library Foundation awarded 25,000.00 for Early Childhood Education Initiatives from United Way of South Hampton Roads
The Virginia Beach Library Foundation (VBLF) is proud to announce it has been awarded $25,000 from United Way of South Hampton Roads to support early childhood education in our community. This critical investment will be directed to the Virginia Beach GrowSmart Program, strengthening efforts to ensure young children have equitable access to high-quality early learning opportunities.
The earliest years of a child’s life are foundational to future success. Through the Virginia Beach GrowSmart Program, the Virginia Beach Library Foundation works to support children and families by promoting school readiness, early literacy, and access to resources that help children thrive from birth through age five. This funding will enhance GrowSmart’s ability to serve families across Virginia Beach—particularly those facing barriers to early learning access.
United Way of South Hampton Roads’ investment reflects a shared belief that early childhood education is one of the most powerful ways to create lasting, positive change. By supporting GrowSmart, United Way is helping to lay the groundwork for stronger educational outcomes, healthier families, and a more resilient community.
The $25,000 award will be used to expand and strengthen GrowSmart initiatives, including early literacy programming, caregiver engagement, and community-based partnerships that connect families to essential resources. By meeting families where they are and collaborating with trusted partners, GrowSmart helps ensure that children enter kindergarten ready to learn, grow, and succeed.
This award builds on the strong partnership between the Virginia Beach Library Foundation and United Way of South Hampton Roads. Both organizations are deeply committed to equity, accountability, and measurable outcomes that improve the lives of children and families. Together, we are aligning resources and expertise to maximize impact during the most critical years of development.
With United Way’s support, the Virginia Beach Library Foundation and the Virginia Beach GrowSmart Program will continue advancing a community-wide approach to early childhood education—one that values collaboration, innovation, and family voice. This investment moves us closer to a future where every child in Virginia Beach has the opportunity to start school ready to succeed.
Virginia Beach Library Foundation is awarded 2,500.00 grant from Langley for Families for 2026 Summer Learning Challenge
The Virginia Beach Library Foundation (VBLF) is excited to share that it has been awarded a $2,500 grant from Langley for Families to support the 2026 Summer Learning Challenge. This generous funding will help expand engaging, educational opportunities that keep children learning, curious, and connected throughout the summer months.
The Summer Learning Challenge is designed to combat summer learning loss by encouraging children and families to read, explore, and learn together when school is out. Through interactive activities, literacy incentives, and library-based programming, the challenge turns learning into an adventure—helping students return to school confident and ready to succeed.
With support from Langley for Families, the 2026 Summer Learning Challenge will reach even more families across Virginia Beach, ensuring children have access to books, enrichment activities, and welcoming spaces that foster creativity and discovery.
Summer can be a critical time for students, particularly those who may have limited access to educational resources outside of school. Investments like this one help remove barriers and create equitable learning opportunities for all children. Langley for Families’ commitment reflects a shared belief that education doesn’t stop when the school year ends—and that communities thrive when families are supported year-round.
The Virginia Beach Library Foundation is proud to partner with Langley for Families, an organization dedicated to strengthening families and supporting children’s success. Together, we are investing in programs that empower caregivers, spark a love of reading, and create meaningful learning experiences for children of all ages.
As we prepare for the 2026 Summer Learning Challenge, this $2,500 grant will help enhance program materials, incentives, and outreach efforts—ensuring a fun, inclusive, and impactful experience for participating families. The Foundation looks forward to another summer of stories, exploration, and shared learning at Virginia Beach libraries.
We extend our sincere thanks to Langley for Families for their generosity and continued support of literacy and family-focused initiatives. We are grateful for partners who believe in the power of libraries to educate, inspire, and bring communities together.
Together, we’re turning summer into a season of growth, imagination, and lifelong learning.
