Love, legacy at the heart of Tree House books expansion in Philadelphia

NORTH PHILADELPHIA -- They say rain on the day of a major milestone is considered a sign of good luck, a symbol of growth and a clean slate.

If the old saying holds true, a lot of good luck just landed in North Philadelphia Thursday morning. The gray skies did nothing to dampen the mood outside 1430 West Susquehanna Avenue as the community gathered to celebrate a major new investment in local youth.

Hall of Fame journalist Claire Smith captured that spirit, reminding the crowd that a little bad weather wouldn't alter the day's purpose.

“Thank you all for doing what true Philadelphians do,” Smith said, looking out at the crowd gathered under umbrellas. “And that’s step up. Whether it's rain, snow ... nothing stops you from your appointed journey.”

To help local youth along that journey, Tree House Books is getting a total overhaul. Major League Baseball and Phillies Charities, Inc. teamed up to provide a first look at the center’s new All-Star Legacy Literacy Clubhouse and facility expansion.

Phillies Ambassador Scott Palmer opened the morning by reminding attendees that the impact of the upcoming Midsummer Classic extends far beyond Citizens Bank Park.

"Today is about much more than just baseball," Palmer said. "It's about creating opportunities through literacy, imagination, and learning."

The project is part of a massive $5.5 million investment poured into the greater Philadelphia community ahead of the 96th Midsummer Classic, an initiative designed to leave deep roots long after All-Star Week concludes.

"We have the privilege to team up with our host club to implement our MLB Together Legacy Initiative, which allows us to leave an impact off the baseball field," said April Brown, MLB Senior Vice President of Social Responsibility. "Right here in North Philly, we're so excited for the upcoming expansion."

The partnership with Tree House Books has been a long time coming. Phillies Charities, Inc. President Bonnie Clark noted that when MLB first approached the club, the North Philadelphia non-profit was the immediate choice.

"Over the past seven years, we've had the honor and privilege of working with this remarkable organization and witnessing firsthand how Tree House Books invests not only in literacy, but also in these kids," Clark said.