Gary and Missy Pinkel attended the Read Across America United Way event at Parkade Elementary School on Thursday, September 16 to celebrate the delivery of impactful books to local elementary school students.

The GP M.A.D.E. Foundation partnered with Heart of Missouri United Way to donate 2,600 books to first and second graders in five different Columbia Public Schools, as part of the Read Across Columbia program.

The GP M.A.D.E. Foundation is proud to partner with Heart of Missouri United Way in their efforts to improve lives in the community through working to defeat barriers to basic needs, health, education, and financial stability.

Coach Pinkel spoke at the event with current Columbia Public Schools assistant superintendent and former Mizzou Football player De’Vion Moore. Afterward, Coach Pinkel led students in attendance to the M-I-Z-Z-O-U cheer.

“We are so excited to assist United Way and Columbia school systems in this important task,” Pinkel said. “Our goal is to make a difference in these kids’ lives and everyone is working hard to do that here.”

First and second graders at Parkade, Benton, Blue Ridge, Derby Ridge and Alpha Hart Lewis elementary schools are set to receive the books.

Learn more about the Heart of Missouri United Way here.