Play It Forward: Casino Night Fundraiser

Join us for Play It Forward, a fun and meaningful casino night fundraiser at the Reed Ballroom in downtown Salem in support of Dolly Parton's Imagination Library.

Enjoy an evening of casino-style games, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and connection with community members who care about supporting our youngest learners. Whether you come to play, socialize, or give back, this event brings people together around a shared purpose.

What’s Included

Casino-style games (no experience needed!)
Heavy hors d’oeuvres & Dinner
Cocktails & Mocktails
An evening of fun, connection, and giving back
Doors will open at 5 PM with a cocktail hour & silent auction from 5-6 PM

Why It Matters

Too many children in Oregon lack access to books and early learning resources during the years that matter most.

61% of low-income families report having no books at home
48% of Oregon 4th graders read below the “Basic” level
Reading proficiency statewide remains about 10 points below pre-pandemic levels

With 90% of brain development happening before age five, early access to books and language-rich environments is critical. Supporting early literacy helps set children on a path toward long-term success.

Who Should Attend

Community members who want to support early learning
Business and civic leaders
Educators, advocates, and supporters of literacy and children

What Should You Wear?

Casino night style! Cocktail attire encouraged.

Your Impact

By attending Play It Forward, you’re helping expand access to books and early learning opportunities for children and families across our region. Proceeds from this event support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, helping deliver free, high-quality books to children from birth to age five.

🎲 Play for a purpose.
📚 Support early literacy.
💛 Help build strong foundations for our earliest learners.

About Marion & Polk Early Learning Hub

Marion & Polk Early Learning Hub works to ensure children and families in our region have access to early learning, family supports, and resources that help children get the strongest possible start. By partnering with communities, providers, and organizations, the Hub helps align services and expand opportunities for children from birth through early elementary years.

Contact the host of Play It Forward: Casino Night Fundraiser