Reading Aloud was organized by Kari Whitney, who was at the time pursuing a master's degree in librarianship through the University of Washington. She collected a multiculturally-rich assortment of picture and read-aloud books, recruited reading volunteers from among student groups and personal connections, and then supervised and read during the event. This activity satisfied a diversity outreach project assignment as well as her personal interest in supporting local individuals and families at-risk of food insecurity and homelessness.

Project Homeless Connect "provides a starting place on the journey back to safety, stability, health, and hope. Project Homeless Connect reduces the duration of homelessness by providing services that address the basic needs; basic medical and dental care, access to education, employment and benefits systems, chemical dependency assessments, flu shots, haircuts, and much more – all under one roof!"