Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC) and Southwest Human Development (SWHD), have joined forces once again to present the 15th year of the bi-annual Festival of Tales—a vibrant, free community literacy event designed for families of all ages. Sponsored this year by Phoenix-based law firm Engelman Berger, this event showcases immersive storytelling, arts and crafts, face painting, live entertainment, and more, all while promoting the joy and importance of literacy.
Since its inception in 2009, the Festival of Tales has attracted thousands of families from across Maricopa County, distributing more than 40,000 books to children and their families. In Spring 2010, PVCC joined forces with SWHD, Arizona’s largest nonprofit dedicated to early childhood development, which helped to significantly expand the event’s reach by providing thousands of additional books at each festival. This collaboration, with the support of Engelman Berger, not only enhances the literacy programs PVCC offers but also amplifies the impact on the local community by connecting families to valuable resources and meaningful experiences.
Sharing a Vision
Early childhood literacy, the natural development of reading, writing, and language skills, begins at birth through positive, book-centered interactions between children and their caregivers, has a powerful impact on lifelong learning. The Festival of Tales gives families the opportunity to nurture these vital early literacy experiences with free book giveaways, storytime sessions, and interactive literacy activities.
SWHD partnership with PVCC plays a crucial role in the Festival of Tales, providing essential support and expanding the reach of the event’s mission. Jake Adams, SWHD’s Chief Development Officer, shared that donors to the organization contribute between $40,000 and $75,000 annually to be used for books and early literacy programs, one of which is the Festival of Tales.
"Working with kids aged 0-5 at SWHD, we know that achieving an education is only possible for many parents with young children, because of the affordability and flexibility of community colleges like PVCC," said Adams. "I used to bring my own children to the Festival of Tales when they were younger, so I’ve always been a huge champion of this event and understand the impact PVCC and other community colleges have on the families we serve. It’s a perfect combination of books, hands-on activities, and grassroots storytelling, all led by the students of PVCC.”
"We share a common goal—uplifting the lives of children, families, caregivers, and the communities in which they live," said Meggin Kirk, director of PVCC’s Education Program. "The growth of the event has been incredible, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support of SWHD and other community partners."
Looking to the Future
As PVCC and SWHD continue to strengthen their partnership, the impact of the Festival of Tales will only grow. The event offers families more than just books and fun activities; it provides an accessible, grassroots platform for promoting literacy, cultural understanding, and community connection.
In 2019, the Festival of Tales earned two distinguished awards from the Maricopa County Community College District—the Diversity Advisory Council Award and the Paul M. Pair Innovation of the Year Award—recognizing its significant contribution to the community.
This fall’s event will be held December 7th, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at PVCC’s Union Hills campus for a day of storytelling, activities, and celebration! Free parking is available. Learn more here.