A CHARITY WORTH GIVING TO: THE BOOK BANK FOUNDATION

By Wendy Trust, Volunteer for The Book Bank Foundation


This year on December 16th, The Book Bank Foundation members and volunteers traveled through 4 of the 5 New York City boroughs and delivered over 300 coats, over 75 bags of donated clothes, and hundreds of toys to shelters and to the streets. We started at 10:30 a.m. and traveled tell 10:30 p.m. at night ensuring that every ounce of donated clothing was delivered. We had a full-sized travel bus, and the donated items were packed to the brim underneath and piled in the back of the bus. It was a great event whose success can be measured in the heart and passion of The Book Bank Foundation members that worked hard to make the event happen. Click to view photos.

From my perspective, every once and awhile, you meet people that change your life. The people of The Book Bank Foundation have done that for me by sharing with me an opportunity to be a part of something bigger than myself. This past week I was lucky enough to be a part of two signature events for The Book Bank Foundation, first the Hero Awards, and second, Shelter from the Street. This is a charity that does real work, for real people who need it. What I mean by that is, we did something profound in Shelter from the Streets….we took real items like clothing, coats, and toys to real people who couldn’t afford to purchase them and gave it to them. There are a lot of organizations out there that do great things for people, but many of them take the donated items and store them in warehouses until they can get sorted and then give it to people who need them 2-3 years later. So when people ask me why I was crazy enough to juggle my family, work, school and helping The Book Bank Foundation, my reply, “The Book Bank Foundation is doing the right thing, fighting illiteracy and trying to give back to those communities that need the helping hand of humanity....it just feels right to me.“

On a separate note, earlier this week in Barnegat, New Jersey, a family’s home burnt to the ground. The Book Bank Foundation found out (with their new location in Jackson, NJ) and was on site delivering several bags of clothing, coats and shoes to the family by 11:00 a.m.

In short, I have witnessed two profound things that the Book Bank Foundation has done this week (both the Shelter from the Streets and helping the fire victims in Barnegat) and I am truly blessed to have shared these moments with this great organization.

Thank you Glenn Toby, Jennifer Lewis , Jamaal, Tee, Slim, Eva, CFG, Dr. Ira, GOG, Kathleen, Larry B. and the rest of the crew who worked hard this week to make this happen. It was well worth the journey.

P.S. If you would like to donate or get involved, you can email info@thebookbankfoundation.org.

The Book Bank Foundation 7th Annual Hero Awards

On December 11^th, 2010 The Book Bank Foundation hosted a monumental event to which our members and sponsors were joined by friends, family and celebrities and athletes (Raymond Felton, Monique Calhoun (Runway Model and Finalist on America’s Top Model), R.A. The Rugged Man (Rapper and Lyricists), and Anthony Randolph (NY Knick)) from across the United States, as we celebrated our two honorees, Raymond Felton and John A. Thorburn, at the 7^th Annual Hero Awards in New York City.

By way of literal translation, the word hero is defined as “a man distinguished by exceptional courage and nobility and strength” (http://wordnetweb.princeton.edu/perl/webwn?s=hero). These are characteristics held by few men, and that is why the BBF is proud to honor both Raymond Felton, co-captain of the New York Knicks, and SSGT. John Andrew Thorburn, a decorated war veteran, as our 2010 Heroes.

At the beginning of the ceremony, Jennifer Lewis, Chief Executive Officer of the Book Bank Foundation, introduced Larry B., a local teenager from New York and read aloud a letter he wrote to Glenn Toby, our Founder , requesting the opportunity to meet Raymond Felton. As Jennifer read the letter, you could feel the heaviness of hearts in the room as we heard Larry’s story. In his short-life, Larry has faced more adversity than most adults experienced in a life time. He lost both his father and best friend to gun violence, was taken from his mother by the state, and put in both foster care and group homes. At the closing of the letter, Jennifer announced and welcomed our honored guest, Raymond Felton to come meet Larry. With arms wide open, Raymond walked over and gave Larry a great big South Carolina hug. Larry said this was one of the best moments of his life…”a dream come true.” To which Jennifer said “this is why we do what we do.”

In closing of the event, the awards were given to our distinguished guests. The first honoree, Raymond Felton was joined by his parents, Raymond and Barbara Felton, and fellow team mate, Anthony Randolph as Chris Furrule, President of Creative Financial Group presented him with his award.

Our second honoree, John A. Thorburn passed away earlier this year, and even though he was not with us it was clear by the large group of friends and family that he left a great legacy. His son, R.A. The Rugged Man accepted the award on behalf of his father and family.

On behalf of The Book Bank Foundation, we would like to extend a special thank you to our honorees, Larry B. and to our sponsors--Creative Financial Group of New Jersey, Dr. Saint Martin, Bubblefish, Sugartime and Mark Trust.

Shelter From The Streets 2010

This Thursday, December 16, The Book Bank Foundation (BBF) members and volunteers will come together for the last signature event in 2010, Shelter From The Streets.

For this event, donated items (i.e., winter clothing, blankets, personal products and toys) are taken to the homeless and underprivileged during the Holiday Season. Volunteers travel via charter bus to each location visiting shelters in four of the New York City’s boroughs (Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, New York City) and then on to the city streets to give away the remaining donated items.

"The Shelter from the Streets will change your life....Come join us on Thursday. Help heal the forgotten, lost, and lonely this Thursday" said Glenn Toby, BBF Founder.

Bus tickets are sold for $40.00 to volunteers and mini sponsors to join the BBF in their fight to help bring hope to those who need it. Every ticket holder receives a BBF T-shirt. All proceeds benefit The Book Bank Foundation. So come join us as we change lives, and change ourselves as we give back to the community.


The bus will leave from Hollis Famous Burgers/Hip Hop Museum http://www.hollisfamousburgers.com/ at 10:00 am. The street address is 201-03 Hollis Avenue, New York, NY 11412.

Buy Tickets: http://www.ticketleap.com/login/?next=http%3A//thebookbankfoundation.ticketleap.com/admin/events/shelter-from-the-streets-nyc-shelter-tour/details/

The Book Bank Foundation's "The 5 Horrors" PSA

As we get closer to the end of the year, The Bank Bank Foundation will host their two signature New York events. Therefore would like to give a little snap shot of why we fight for the homeless in New York City. Join us on 12/16 as we deliver donated goods to men, women and children in the homeless shelters in our Shelter from the Streets event.

To buy tickets go to: http://www.ticketleap.com/login/?next=http%3A//thebookbankfoundation.ticketleap.com/admin/events/shelter-from-the-streets-nyc-shelter-tour/details/

The Book Bank Foundation Honors NBA Point Guard and Co Captain, Raymond Felton of the New York Knicks and John A. Thorburn on December 11, 2010.

On November 8, 2010, The Book Bank Foundation (BBF) proudly announced the recipients of their 7th Annual Hero Awards to be held in New York City on December 11th. This year’s Heros are Raymond Felton, co-captain of the New York Knicks and the valiant Staff Sergeant John A. Thorburn. Every year, the BBF board and advisors select key individuals that have made great strides improving the community and in their respective fields and recognizes them with this prestigious award. The recipients generally share the Foundation’s mission, principles, and passion for helping others.

In 2009 The Book Bank Foundation traveled throughout the city of Charlotte, North Carolina with several members, and Raymond Felton, then a player for the NBA Charlotte Bobcat, to feed, and raise awareness to the disease of poverty. This charitable endeavor earned Raymond the 2010 Hero Award. When notified Raymond Felton stated that “The BBF’s principles are one’s dear to my heart, I’m excited to work with them and contribute to their cause. I am humbled to receive The BBF’s 2010 Hero Award.”

The second Hero, served our country for over 10 years. John A. Thorburn, a decorated American War Veteran who served in the United States Army and the United States Air Force and during the Vietnam War. In returning home, Thorburn was a committed father who raised severely disabled children, fought against homelessness among veterans, and was a long time supporter of the BBF. Thorburn passed away January 10, 2010, therefore his son, Rapper R.A. The Rugged Man will be accepting his Hero award. “Helping underprivileged people in the community is an amazing way to keep my father’s name and legacy alive. He was a true hero in life and he would've felt honored and blessed. It's a beautiful thing “ said RA, The Rugged Man.


The Book Bank Foundation was founded by celebrity sports agent, entertainment manager, and philanthropist Glenn Toby. The Hero Awards is one of their signature annual events and brings together the best in film, entertainment, sports and business to benefit the continual national homeless advocacy and literacy work of The BBF and to celebrate those who are actively dedicated to philanthropy and improving the lives in communities worldwide. “We are honored to have them as our honorees, for their hard work and support they has provided The Book Bank Foundation.“ said CEO Jennifer Lewis.

The 2010 year is set to close as a huge success with Raymond Felton and R.A The Rugged Man, preparing to lend a helping hand to men, women, and children of the New York City area with not only the charity giving of the Annual Hero Awards, but with their Shelter from the Streets event in December. Both Honorees will help with their support and inspiration of humanity, echoing the key factors of the BBF’s principles. “I’m happy to be at a place in my life where I can be a blessing to others,” says Felton. The New York Knicks, SugarTime Sports, and Creative Financial Group of New Jersey, will be supporting his efforts.

“Now the ball is in our court to help” said Glenn Toby. New York is the basketball capital of the World and I have a home court advantage when dealing with the homeless people in New York City. It was natural for me to call on humble celebrities that understand struggles of everyday life and know how to win during the greatest times of adversity.”

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To all of our beloved BBF supporters and sponsors, general admission tickets go on sale today for $50.00 each. Please help us fill the house for this event.

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To purchase tickets for the Book Bank Foundation Annual Heros Awards visit
http://thebookbankfoundation.ticketleap.com/the-book-bank-foundations-7th-annual-heros-awards/

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About The Book Bank Foundation Inc
Book Bank Foundation is a literacy-based organization geared towards inner-city youth. With chapters in New York, Atlanta, Charlotte and Los Angeles, The Book Bank Foundation places a year around focus on the serious issue of homeless families, children and the destitute. Since its inception the BBF has directly aided hundreds of thousands of people in need through clothing distribution, medical supervision and counseling. http://www.thebbf.org/

About the Creative Financial Group of New Jersey
A preeminent financial services firm in New Jersey providing unparalleled service, experience, integrity, and dedication to clients attain their financial goals and objectives. Creative Financial Group of NJ is committed to serving as a vital resource to their clients by offering a wide range of products and services through their affiliation with many companies and broker dealer, New England Securities, as well as by developing a team of highly qualified financial professionals who work in partnership with their clients. http://www.cfgnj.net/

About BubbleFish Media
BubbleFish Media is a full-service events, marketing and public relations firm. We represent a wide array of clients primarily focusing on Fashion, Film, Sports, Gaming, the Arts, Hospitality and Luxury Lifestyle Brands. We think creatively and strategically and launch distinct, compelling and successful publicity campaigns in a variety of media outlets including radio, television, print and the internet. We secure top-tier media placements for our clientele through customized campaign creation, targeted pitching and an unparalleled passion for achieving press with a purpose – directly impacting a client’s goals and expectations. http://www.thebubblefish.com/

The BBF: Serving in the Summer!

On Saturday July 11, 2009 Jennifer Lewis, CEO of The Book Bank Foundation will be hosting a “Summer Pampering” session for women. It will be an opportunity to relax, relate and release and heal from the inside out. A book will be given to each woman in attendance to encourage summer reading. Sample selections from Glenn Toby Radio “ The Romantic Suite” will be played in support of The Book Bank Foundation.

The upcoming 2nd Annual Literacy Fair which will be held on Friday August 14, 2009 @ The Carmelo Anthony Center in Baltimore MD. The focus for this year is to encourage and promoting literacy through creative writing. The Book Bank Foundation’s Creative Writing Workshop (CWW) has been incorporated in the curriculum of the summer camp program. The campers will work on creating an original book and present it at the end of the summer during the Literacy fair/ closing program for the summer camp session.

On August 15, 2009 Glenn Toby Radio in support of The Book Bank Foundation will be hosting a charity event @ The Chocolate Bar in Atlanta. “ The Romantic Suite” Volume 1 is currently available. Advanced orders of “ The Romantic Suite Volume 2 ” are also being accepted at this time. Please look out for the upcoming launch of the Glenn Toby Radio website.

What’s next…. It’s never too early to preparing for the fall and winter events Pre-Thanksgiving event in Atlanta, Hero’s award in NYC and Shelter From The Streets 2009 in NYC !

Visit us at http://www.thebbf.org/ for more information.

The Book Bank Foundation In Action!

On April 28, 2009 Glenn Toby was the keynote speaker for the 20’s under 40’s group at the 11th annual Staten Island Economic Development Business to Business conference. Glenn delivered an electrifying speech to the twenty one individuals being honored for their extraordinary strides in business. Attorney General Andrew Cuomo and New York City Mayor Michael Blumberg were honored civic leaders in attendance at the conference. A special thank you to Jodi Guagliardo,for extending the invitation to participate in the conference. Glenn Toby and The Book Bank Foundation will continue to work hard to keep Staten Island strong!

On May 6, 2009 Glenn Toby, Jennifer Lewis, April Wilson and youth volunteers of The Book Bank Foundation participated in the Adopt a pilot program in conjunction with South West Airlines at Chicago Midway Airport. The Adopt a Pilot program partners with neighboring elementary school students to give them an opportunity to learn about career opportunities in aviation. The students and Book Bank Foundation volunteers had an opportunity meet with Mr. Williams a Tuskegee airman, tour the airport, visit the cock pit and meet flight crew from South West Airlines. Glenn Toby spoke to the students on the importance of reading, alternate career opportunities and being responsible students. The Book Bank Foundation distributed over 160 new books to the students that participated in the program. A special thank you to John Addison, pilot with SW airlines and Book Bank member.

On May 10, 2009 The Book Bank Foundation held its second annual pre-mother’s day celebration at The Bronx Concord House. Highlights from the afternoon celebration were poetry readings from Brenda Douglas, Inspirational messages by Angela Hines, Cherri Shepphard, and Jennifer Lewis. Candace Sandy esteemed co –author of Souls of My Sisters read excerpts from Souls Reveled and autographed copies of the books that were given to the women. The Book Bank Foundation provided mother’s day gifts and lunch to over 26 women and children. A special thank you to Jamel Robinson and Marvin Brown for donating the lunch, Jamaal Lights for providing mother’s day gifts, Cherri Shepphard for donating t-shirts to the mothers and the Hines family for the arts and craft activities for the children

On May 12, 2009 Glenn Toby received the 2009 Community service award for his achievements and his charitable works from the Institute For Student Achievement (ISA) The mission of ISA and The Book Bank Foundation are complementary. ISA specifically works with public schools with low performance rates. They directly invest in the improvement of quality education. At The Book Bank Foundation we believe in investing in the academic needs of our children today because they are the individuals that will be in control of our future tomorrow. A special thank you to Mr. John Addison ,pilot with SW airlines and Mr. David Schoen, attorney at law for introducing Glenn before he received his award and addressed the audience.

What’s next…. August 14, 2009 The Book Bank Foundation and Living Classrooms will host our 2nd annual Literacy Fair/ Back to school event at the Carmelo Anthony Center in Baltimore MD. Donations of back to school supplies are being accepted.