Fundraising for books still short

CHARLESTON - The fundraising campaign to buy books for a reading project between the Charleston County School District and the College of Charleston has a ways to go before reaching its goal.

Organizers of Third Cup Charleston hoped to raise $20,000, an amount that would be matched by the local Five Guys Burgers and Fries franchise. They have raised roughly $4,000 and are hoping residents will chip in to support this project.

"Third Cup Charleston gives the community an opportunity to reach out and make a difference and empower Charleston youth through literacy and service," said Greg Pressley, a Mount Pleasant resident and software consultant who volunteered to organize the fundraising drive.

Money raised will go toward buying one of three versions of "Three Cups of Tea," a nonfiction story that describes Greg Mortenson's crusade to establish schools in remote regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan.

The college adopted the book and is encouraging its entire student body to read it this year.

The college also plans to use the book in Charleston schools, and donations will pay for public school students to receive copies of the book.

Faculty from the college's School of Education, Health, and Human Performance are creating a curriculum that will be used to teach "Three Cups of Tea" in elementary, middle and high schools.

College students will be trained in the curriculum, visit district classrooms once a week for seven weeks, and do hands-on activities during each session.

Pressley said the book touches on several themes, including character building and education. "It's going to teach children the importance of community and giving back."

A $10 donation will pay for two books, and donations can be made at www.third cupcharleston.com. Organizers plan to order the books by Aug. 13.

Reach Diette Courrégé at 937-5546 or dcourrege@postandcourier.com.