Ohio Governor Declared Dolly Parton Day
Governor Mike DeWine officially recognized the singer's legacy with a proclamation.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Governor Mike DeWine and Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel signed a proclamation declaring September 25 as Dolly Parton Day in Ohio. The day honors the singer's philanthropic work, including the Imagination Library of Ohio.
Why it matters
The proclamation recognizes Parton's life and generosity while spotlighting efforts to combat food insecurity and promote literacy. The state is leveraging this recognition to bolster Hunger Action Month initiatives across the region.
The Imagination Library of Ohio mails one free book monthly to more than 400,000 children across the state. This initiative operates as part of the broader philanthropic efforts recognized by the official proclamation.
The players
Mike DeWine
Mike DeWine is the Governor of Ohio who issued the official proclamation recognizing the day.
Jim Tressel
Jim Tressel is the Lieutenant Governor of Ohio who co-signed the proclamation.
Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton is an iconic singer and philanthropist whose charitable work includes the Imagination Library.
Kroger
Kroger is a retail company facilitating a fundraising campaign for food banks in partnership with the state.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a cultural institution in Cleveland hosting events to commemorate the day.
The details
Kroger is coordinating with customers to round up purchases at checkout to benefit Feeding America food banks, with the retailer pledging to match every dollar raised. Additionally, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland is marking the occasion with specific festivities for 9 to 5 Day.
Timeline
September 25, 2026: Dolly Parton Day celebration occurs.
Market Landscape
This collaborative fundraising effort aligns with the national Hunger Action Month to address regional food insecurity. By leveraging corporate retail networks, the initiative expands the scale of philanthropic support beyond traditional state-funded programs.
Shoppers at Kroger can participate in the fundraising effort by choosing to round up their total at the checkout counter. This provides a direct, accessible way for residents to support Feeding America food banks while the company doubles the impact of these contributions.
The takeaway
Supporting charitable initiatives like the Imagination Library or food bank drives can be integrated into everyday errands through corporate-sponsored round-up programs. Engaging in these small-scale financial contributions significantly expands the reach of local non-profit organizations.
Further reading
Learn more about local efforts by visiting the Ohio Philanthropy section.
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Do you support using retail round-up programs to fund local community services?
