Dolly Parton passed away last week. Her legacy of creating opportunities for children almost surpassed her music career, which made it all possible.

In 1995, Dolly created The Imagination Library. This initiative guaranteed that every child received a book every month from birth through age five. This was inspired by her father’s inability to read and write. Over time, more than 300 million books have been given away.

Through her Dollywood Foundation, she promised seventh and eighth graders $500 if they stayed in school and graduated. The dropout rate at one school went from 35% to 6%. The kids had to earn it, and they did.

Dolly Parton did many more worthwhile things with her earnings. Too many to list. Take a moment to look into it. You will be inspired.

Until sundown on Tuesday, September 1st flags are flying at half-staff in honor of Dolly Parton. She was such a bright light. It seems like 80 years of Dolly weren’t enough…