"One book sparks curiosity, one bin serves a school, and a network of bins can impact an entire region."

Help Expand Literary Lift Across South Florida

Hi, my name is Alex, and I’m a high school student in Miami, Florida. Because I am a minor, my parent is managing the funds from this fundraiser on my behalf, and all donations go directly toward supporting Literary Lift.

Two years ago, when I was in 8th grade, what began as a simple school project revealed a real need in my community: increasing access to books for students in public schools and after-school programs.

First Year (8th Grade): A School Project with Real Impact

With the support of my team, we raised $1,711 on GoFundMe, purchased two book donation bins, and provided school supplies for students in need. Through these efforts, we distributed more than 500 books directly to students at Melrose Elementary School and provided $1,500 in school supplies to support classrooms and families.

I began thinking not just about what I could accomplish for a semester, but what I could build for the long term.

Second Year (9th Grade): Becoming Literary Lift

I chose to continue the initiative on my own and officially gave it a name, Literary Lift.

As an independent initiative, I used the remaining donation bin to collect more than 250 additional books, which I donated to the South Miami Gibson-Bethel Community Center’s after-school program, continuing the mission beyond the original project.

Third Year (10th Grade): Scaling Literary Lift

Now, as a 10th grader, I am focused on transforming Literary Lift from a growing initiative into a sustainable nonprofit organization.

My goal is to:

• Install four additional donation bins (five total across South Florida)

• Partner with additional public schools and after-school programs

• Distribute 1,000+ books per year

• Create a website to increase online presence

• Register as a Florida nonprofit corporation

• Begin the process toward 501(c)(3) federal tax-exempt status

This next phase will focus on building the infrastructure needed to ensure long-term sustainability and continued growth.

Why This Matters

Access to books builds literacy, confidence, and long-term opportunity.

Many students in underserved communities do not have books at home. I especially remember one young boy who was thrilled to receive a Fortnite book. His excitement showed me how even a single book can bring so much joy. By strategically placing donation bins and partnering directly with public schools and nonprofits, Literary Lift ensures that donated books go straight into the hands of students who need them most.

How the Funds Will Be Used

To expand Literary Lift this year, I am raising $1,000. Here is exactly how the funds will be used:

Four Custom Donation Bins – $525

Custom printed cardboard floor display bins (with 4-panel personalized graphics) to be placed in high-visibility community locations across South Florida.

Web Presence – $130

• Domain registration: $10

• Annual DIY Website Builder plan (hosting included): $120

The website will provide an easy way for schools, donors, and community partners to access information and track Literary Lift’s impact.

Florida Nonprofit Registration – $61.25

Filing as a Florida nonprofit corporation and covering the annual report fee.

IRS 501(c)(3) Application – $275

Filing the IRS Form 1023-EZ for recognition as a federal tax-exempt nonprofit (smaller nonprofits).

Labor & Transportation

All labor and transportation costs for bin installation and book collection will be covered at no cost by me and other volunteers.

Total estimated startup expansion cost: ~$991.25

This expansion will allow Literary Lift to reach more students, serve more communities, and build a sustainable foundation for long-term growth, while engaging donors and strengthening partnerships with schools and community organizations.

Transparency & Fund Management

This fundraiser is for Alex Ramey and my student-led initiative, Literary Lift.

Because I am a minor, I am unable to directly receive funds through

GoFundMe. Therefore, my parent is managing the financial aspects of this fundraiser on my behalf.

All donations are received into my parent’s bank account solely for the purpose of supporting Literary Lift. Funds are carefully managed and used only for the expenses outlined in this campaign, including purchasing bins, acquiring books and supplies, building our website, and completing nonprofit registration and related costs.

This ensures that every dollar raised directly supports expanding access to books and educational opportunities for students in underserved communities.

How You Can Help

• Donate if you’re able

• Share this campaign with your network

• Connect Literary Lift with schools or community centers

• Sponsor a donation bin

Thank you for believing in student-led leadership and helping expand access to books and opportunities across South Florida.

With gratitude,

Alex

President, Literary Lift