We are highlighting a few celebrity moms on Buzz and the children’s charities they champion this Mother’s Day. We were introduced to some unique charities and great causes!  We hope you enjoy the series of articles in the upcoming days that feature some moms you will know, some you may not, but charities that are worth our attention!

We were first introduced to the charity First Book. Oscar nominee Joan Allen is passionate about this organization and with good reason.  Started 17 years ago by Kyle Zimmer to provide books to children in need, the charity has provided more than 65 million books to kids, and about 8 million books just last year. First Book grants access to resources to elevate educational programs offered to these children. Teachers serving low-income children report that for the first time, when they receive First Book books, they can truly plan curriculum and lessons instead of depending on random donations.

As a long time friend of the organization, Joan shared some thoughts on her experiences with First Book. “My life has been enriched by seeing the faces of so many children light up with the new books that they’ve been given. These children love the chance to read and then share their books with their families,” she said. “Storytelling is something every human being yearns for. We all want to feel like we are not alone or that we want to learn something that is not part of our daily lives and will expand us. First Book provides this glorious opportunity for so many children.”

Joan will spend Mother’s Day afternoon in her Broadway show and then spend the evening with her daughter for a real Mother’s Day celebration.