United Way of the CSRA and Local Partners Host “Book Bash 2026” to Celebrate Literacy and Combat the Summer Slide

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Thursday, May 21st, 2026

United Way of the CSRA, in a powerful collaboration with The Hub for Community Innovation, RISE Augusta, AmeriCorps, and the Dr. Paulette P. Harris Literacy Center at Augusta University, is excited to invite the community to Book Bash 2026. This free, high-energy event is dedicated to ensuring local students have consistent access to high-quality reading materials in their homes throughout the summer months to prevent the “summer slide.”

Book Bash is open to the public and aims to distribute 1,500 book bags, with each participating child receiving approximately 5–6 books to build their personal home libraries.

Recognizing that literacy is a lifelong journey, the event provides books ranging in level from infant to high school senior, ensuring that no one in the community is too young or too old to participate.

Event Details:

  • DATE: Saturday, June 13, 2026
  • TIME: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

  •  LOCATION: The Hub for Community Innovation, 631 Chafee Ave., Augusta, GA 30904


This year’s celebration features much more than book giveaways. Families can look forward to a day filled with family-friendly games and activities, delicious food, and a variety of community vendors providing valuable resources and entertainment for all ages.

“Literacy is the foundation of all future success,” said Brittany Burnett, President and CEO of United Way of the CSRA. “By partnering with organizations like RISE Augusta and the Harris Literacy Center, we are able to meet the diverse needs of our students and provide the tools necessary to keep their minds active during the summer break.”

Families are strongly encouraged to PRE-REGISTER TODAY by scanning the QR code on the official event flyer. Pre-registration ensures your spot and helps expedite check-in so your family can get straight to
the fun!

This initiative aligns with United Way of the CSRA’s ongoing commitment to supporting the health, education, and well-being of our local residents and the bold strategic goal of impacting 30,000 ALICE families by 2030.