On April 3, 2006, Kids to Kids launched its program at a new school, Whitney Elementary! Whitney is the twelfth school to be "adopted" by Kids to Kids and adds more than 700 children to those being served by the program.

Expansion of the Kids to Kids program to Whitney Elementary was due in great part to John Ritter and Hilary Westrom, through their Ritter Charitable Trust, administered by the Nevada Community Foundation. The event included two assemblies, each with readings from books and appearances by special guests.

Taking part in the proceedings were two members of the Las Vegas Gladiators' dance squad, the Goddesses (below).

Below, from left, it's Kids to Kids Executive Director Lisa Habighorst, Whitney Elementary Principal Sherrie Gahn and Laurie Porter, President of Kids to Kids.

When Kids to Kids launches at a school, children are given a tote bag and the chance to select five books to take home. There's no way to describe the excitement this generates with kids, other than to just show some of their unforgettable smiles!

Now that you've seen Kids to Kids in action, consider making a donation or contact us to become a volunteer.

Photos by Scott Roeben.