Our programs focus on literacy and community service, utilizing a series of connected programs to accomplish our mission: to teach the values at the heart of America and to teach people, particularly children, that they help themselves when they help others.

Books From The Heart™ is a literacy program which engages students, corporations, and other organizations in gathering books that are not being used, solicits publishers for surplus books, and then gets these books into the hands of needy elementary school children and onto the empty shelves of school libraries located in areas of poverty. The program also serves as a vehicle to introduce young people to community service through book drives.

The READesign^SM “library makeover” program program is being launched as a pilot program in Jacksonville, Florida. READesign^SM aims to transform elementary school libraries by redecorating, revitalizing technology, replenishing bookshelves and by renewing community support and interest in enriching student lives and helping students regain lost opportunities for learning. The program draws on the Heart of America’s expertise in making community connections and rallying citizens, especially young people, to help make a positive difference in someone else’s life.

The Ambassador Program is an educational outreach service for schools across the nation that places exemplary young adults before as many of their peers as possible. Youth Ambassadors are service-minded, dynamic youth leaders who have been nationally recognized for their service contributions. Each Ambassador speaks from personal experience, helping students understand their “response ability” and encouraging them to live up to their highest possibilities.

The Heart of America Foundation® also administers scholarship programs which recognize exemplary students for their efforts to improve the lives of others.

In addition to our partners, our programs are supported by Sweet Charity, an annual fundraiser created by Albert Uster Imports, a fine gourmet and specialty house. This benefit brings together pastry chefs and chefs from Washington D.C.’s leading hotels and restaurants for a unique event that emphasizes chocolate as a metaphor for the sweetness and potential in every child. Featuring a silent auction, a chocolate fashion show, plus sweet and savory treats by the area’s most renowned chefs, this is an event not to be missed!