By Alex Greenwood,
October 7, 2024
The University of Central Missouri's (UCM) Children’s Literature Festival is proud
to announce its selection for the Horizons initiative, a cultural heritage tourism
program supported by Missouri Humanities, the Missouri Arts Council (MAC) and the
Missouri Division of Tourism.
The Horizons initiative is a cultural heritage tourism program designed to drive both
in-state and out-of-state visitors to Missouri’s cultural festivals and events. As
one of 10 organizations chosen for this cohort, the Children's Literature Festival
will receive supplemental funding and support to expand its offerings, ensuring that
the festival remains a staple of the Warrensburg community. In addition to financial
support, the Horizons program provides marketing assistance, video production for
event promotion, and capacity-building opportunities.
Through Horizons funding, a special free event will be hosted at 9 a.m. Saturday,
March 8 at the Missouri Veterans Home in Warrensburg. Children’s author Dorinda Nicholson
will share her firsthand experience of the Dec. 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor attack and discuss
her book, “Pearl Harbor Child.” This event will offer an opportunity for the community
to engage with history and reflect on its significance and lasting impact.
Planning for additional humanities-related free events is ongoing.
While grants from Missouri Humanities and MAC have helped cover Children’s Literature
Festival expenses, community contributions remain vital to ensuring the continued
ability to bring beloved authors and illustrators to Warrensburg. Support from the
community directly helps reduce costs and enhances the festival experience for children.
Contributions are encouraged to help sustain these efforts.
For more information on how to contribute or participate, please contact festival
director Maya Kucij at clfreg@ucmo.edu or visit .