Kate Purvis
PresidentA native Michigander, Kate found a true calling working for nonprofits while living in the Chicago area. She developed a deep passion for charitable work and giving back to the community during her tenure on the other side of the lake. Having recently returned to Kent County, Kate was determined to see that Dolly Parton's Imagination Library became available for her daughters. One small inquiry has dominoed into this larger quest to bring The Imagination Library to all of the children of Kent County. When she's not slinging books, Kate can be found tending to her vegetable garden with her girls.
Kate's favorite children's book is The Gruffalo. Kate Goldman
Secretary
Following in the footsteps of her grandmother and father, who both helped bring the Imagination Library to Michigan communities, Kate was inspired to act when she moved back to Grand Rapids while pregnant and realized the program wasn’t available yet for her daughter. Kate and her husband work as a real estate team, and as a realtor Kate finds great joy in stewarding clients through the experience of buying and selling their homes. A lifelong reader and helper at heart, she’s passionate about making life better for all kids in GR by expanding access to books and early literacy resources.
Kate’s favorite children’s book is Barnyard Dance. |
Danielle Nauta, CPA
TreasurerGiving back to the community through local service projects has always energized Danielle. After graduating from Davenport with her master’s and obtaining her CPA certification, she wanted to use her technical training and skills to support her community. When she learned about Early Bird Books and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, she knew she had to get involved. Reading wasn’t something she enjoyed doing while growing up, but as an adult she now loves to read and wants to share the love of reading with her community. When Danielle is not at work, she loves to kayak, hike, camp, and go on lots of adventures with her husband Ben.
Danielle’s favorite children's book is If You Give a Mouse a Cookie. Damion Parker
DirectorDamion is a former Law Enforcement professional, who turned in his badge and found his true passion as the owner of Kona Ice of West Grand Rapids. Running his own business has allowed him to touch the lives of many families and children in his community. Damion also finds true joy in volunteering at his children's school where he reads books to many students. So when Kate introduced him to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, he couldn't help but get involved!
Damion has lived in Kent County for over 20 years where he enjoys spending time with his wife, playing Fantasy Football, working in the yard, and watching his two children play sports. Damion's favorite children’s book is The Poky Little Puppy. Katie Baker
DirectorKatie is a former museum and nonprofit professional who is currently spending quality time with her kids. With a background in development and marketing, Katie connected with Early Bird Books during community events and quickly got involved. While she grew up in Grand Rapids, Katie came to Rockford via Minneapolis, MN. Her love of reading was instilled as a child from her parents and has passed that on to her two children. When not reading to her kids, Katie enjoys her golden retriever, crocheting, and gardening.
Katie's favorite children's book is Bob is a Unicorn. |
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