Bechtel Announced as Title Sponsor for 2025 Books and Vines Fundraiser

The Children’s Reading Foundation of the Mid-Columbia is proud to announce Bechtel as the Title Sponsor for Books and Vines 2025, contributing $20,000 to support early literacy in our community. As the event’s top sponsor, Bechtel’s generosity will help ensure every child learns to read early and well, reaching their full potential in school and in life.

“There is no question that when children are read to and learn to read early, it builds a foundation that benefits them their entire lives,” said Brian Hartman, Bechtel Senior Vice President and Project Director for the Hanford Waste Treatment and Immobilization Plant. “As we look at growing well-rounded, productive citizens for our community and workforce, early reading is one of the key first steps in making that happen.”

Books and Vines will take place on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at J. Bookwalter Winery. This year’s fundraising goal is $300,000, with every dollar staying local to purchase books and program materials for children and families throughout the Mid-Columbia region.

“Bechtel’s leadership as our Title Sponsor sets the tone for a truly impactful event,” said Leanne Luehrs-Purcell, Executive Director of The Children’s Reading Foundation of the Mid-Columbia. “They have been a steadfast supporter of the CRFMC for many, many years, and their continued commitment allows us to invest directly in the children of our community, ensuring that families have the tools they need to ensure children are reading at grade level.”
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For more information about Books and Vines 2025, including sponsorship opportunities, visit www.read20minutes.com or contact The Children’s Reading Foundation of the Mid-Columbia at [email protected]