Brave Story: Brave Book Bash
The power of a good story has always been at the heart of Brave Like Me, especially through Brayden’s Books. Brayden Otten loved stories. He enjoyed reading, being read to, laughing, learning, and getting swept up in moments that sparked his imagination. That love helped inspire a mission we now get to share with children and families across the country.
That’s where this mission began.
We started 2026 with a bold goal: donate 20,000 books to children across the country — each one carrying comfort, imagination, and a moment of peace.
And on the weekend that bridged the last day of February and the first day of March, that goal came to life at the Brave Book Bash. Kemba Credit Union, a proud foundation sponsor, graciously allowed us to use their office space as our basecamp to fulfill our mission. More than 100 volunteers showed up to give their time, their energy, and their hearts to pack boxes filled with more than just books. They packed hope; they packed joy; they packed small, powerful escapes for kids who need them most.
Because of our building limitations, this effort also depended on some incredible behind the-scenes partners. Queen City Book Bank played a huge role in helping with logistics, especially since we do not have a loading dock. And our building management team at Linncinnati generously allowed us to temporarily rent staging space for final shipment, which made this massive distribution effort possible.
The room was alive with music playing, laughter echoing, and conversations flowing while boxes were packed with books and bookmarks were decorated with bright colors and whimsical drawings. Volunteers as young as 6 and as wise as 80 worked side by side, united by one simple purpose to make a difference.
And in true Brave Like Me fashion, a few special community guests chipped in too. Mr. Red and the Chick-fil-a Cow rolled up their sleeves (well… hooves and paws) to help pack boxes and spread smiles along the way, while Einstein Bagel in Clifton and Chick-Fil-A at Voice of America Park helped feed hungry volunteers with donations for breakfast and lunch.
Volunteers didn’t just leave knowing they helped us move closer to a goal; they left changed and with a deep sense of appreciation and connection.
One 12-year-old volunteer was so moved by the experience that before he even left, he asked how he could come back and help again. A mom who had signed her family up for just a two-hour shift on Saturday felt it too. The impact stayed with her long after they walked out the doors. So much so, in fact, that she came back again on Sunday, rearranging her plans just to be part of it one more time.
Because when you see what a single story can do… you want to be part of the next one.
This Brave Month and beyond, you can help us turn the page for a child who needs it most.
Whether you donate, buy our newest book, Finnegan, The Football, sign up to volunteer, or simply share our message with your network, you’re doing more than giving a story. You’re also giving a moment of escape, a spark of imagination, and a reminder that joy is still within reach.
