Iowa Governor Terry Branstad congratulating Dondino on his Read To Me Foundation's salute to US military children
Dondino donating 500 new bilingual children books on behalf of Read To Me Foundation to the Ronald McDonald House in Des Moines, Iowa
George Patton Waters (grandson of General George Patton) presenting Dondino with a personal autographed copy of his book to honor his grandfather, General George Patton.
Iowa Governor Terry Branstad congratulating Dondino on his Read To Me Foundation's salute to US military children
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THE BIRTH OF READ TO ME FOUNDATION
Dondino is the President/Founder for the Read To Me Foundation, a 501c3 organization, whose mission is to create bilingual children books (English-Spanish), print and give away FREE, to schools, charities, Head Start Programs, Ronald McDonald Houses, children hospitals, and any organization in need of bilingual children books.
Dondino, born in Italy, came to the United States with his family in pursuit of a better way of life. Because he did not speak English upon his arrival to America he learned many English words through his singing talents by mimicking the lyrics to hundreds of American songs.
Because of his struggles as a non English speaking child, Dondino knows the importance of reading. He understands how reading books can give a child a strong and secure foundation for their future. He also knows first hand the hardships illiteracy can bring to a child and adult who can not read or speak the native language.
​Dondino has made a significant mark in the entertainment world, and has vowed to give back to society through helping others. As a professional singer and entertainer he contributes his time and musical talents to many other charities, including Read To Me Foundation.
Since the birth of Read To Me Foundation in 2009 over 16,000 hard cover, beautiful bilingual children picture books have been given to charities throughout the US, with the majority of book distribution concentrated in Iowa and Nevada.
Each child receiving a Read To Me Foundation book is given their own backpack with a sponsors logo on the outside and a new book inside for the child to take home to share reading with their families.
New View Community Action
Dubuque, Iowa
Iowa National Guard
Des Moines, Iowa
Pahrump Rotary Pahrump, NV
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Dondino began Read To Me Foundation with his foundation creative team of Donna Gummelt/author, Juan D. Varela/illustrator/translator/graphic artist, and himself/author/music composer