Who We Are
Inspiring
Honoring Legacy
Inspiring
Honoring the Legacy of Sanders Duke-Etter
The Sanders Duke-Etter Literacy Foundation was created in loving memory of Sanders Duke-Etter—a devoted aunt, a compassionate educator, and a lifelong advocate for children’s access to books. Sanders, who was hearing impaired, discovered connection, confidence, and possibility through reading at an early age. Books became her world, her comfort, and ultimately her calling.
Literacy
Honoring Legacy
Inspiring
Her passion for literacy led her to the University of Memphis, where she earned her degree in library science. Throughout her career, she served in school and academic libraries, including Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, and Ascension of Our Lord School in Louisiana. Everywhere she went, Sanders made libraries feel like home for the children she served.
Honoring Legacy
Honoring Legacy
Honoring Legacy
Despite personal financial limitations, she repeatedly reached into her own pockets to donate books far beyond what library budgets or grants could provide. She understood that the right book at the right moment can change a child’s entire path.
Despite personal financial limitations, she repeatedly reached into her own pockets to donate books far beyond what library budgets or grants could provide. She understood that the right book at the right moment can change a child’s entire path.Despite personal financial limitations, she repeatedly reached into her own pockets to donate books far beyond what library budgets or grants could provide. She understood that the right book at the right moment can change a child’s entire path.
Our Mission
The Sanders Duke-Etter Literacy Foundation continues her legacy by expanding access to quality children’s books in under-resourced communities. We focus on supporting:
- Underfunded school libraries
- Public libraries in low-income areas
- Early-reader and elementary classrooms with limited book budgets
We begin this mission with Sanders’s own private collection—thousands of cherished books she gathered over a lifetime—alongside additional gently used and donated titles. These books will be sold through our nonprofit’s online bookstore, with 100% of proceeds dedicated to purchasing new, high-quality books for schools and libraries that need them most.
Support The Sanders Project's Mission
Donate Now
Your contribution can help us place a book in young hands. No donation is too small, and every dollar counts.
Volunteer With Us
Join our team of dedicated volunteers and make a difference in your community. Whether it's delivering books, reading to young children, finding donors, supporting fundraisers, or organizing donations, we need your help.
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Become a Partner
Collaborate with us to make a greater impact. We welcome partnerships with businesses, organizations, and individuals who share our values and goals.
Attend Our Events
Join us for our upcoming events and help us raise funds and awareness for our cause. From charity walks to benefit concerts, there's something for everyone.
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Support Our Mission Today
Your generous donations help us provide essential resources and support to those in need. Join us in making a difference and spreading hope in our community. Every contribution counts, no matter the size. Thank you for your kindness!