We Need Diverse Books™ announces 501(c)(3) status

We Need Diverse Books™ (WNDB) is proud to announce that it is now officially recognized as a public charity with tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code.

“We are thrilled to be awarded 501(c)(3) status,” says Marieke Nijkamp, WNDB VP of Finance. “WNDB is committed to the ideal that embracing diversity will lead to acceptance, empathy, and ultimately equality. Being recognized as a public charity will strengthen us in our mission to make the literary landscape more inclusive.”

As a public charity, contributions to WNDB are tax-deductible retroactive to the founding of the organization on July 14, 2014.WNDB is also eligible now to apply for government and foundation grants. Broader access to resources will further support the organization’s programs—the Walter Award and Grants program, the Publishing Internship Program, and WNDB in the Classroom, to name a few—and its ability to advocate essential changes in the publishing industry to produce and promote literature that reflects and honors the lives of all young people.