Give Like Dolly

For generations, Dolly Parton gave the world plenty to remember: unforgettable songs, colorful stories, big dreams and, of course, plenty of rhinestones.

But one of the brightest parts of Dolly’s legacy may be the way she gave back.

On September 25, one month after her passing at age 80, fans and communities are honoring that legacy through Give Like Dolly Day, a global day created by The Dollywood Foundation to encourage people to support Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and other organizations helping children in their own communities.

For Dolly, giving was personal

In 1995, inspired by her father, who never learned to read or write, she launched Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library in her home county in East Tennessee. The idea was simple: put books directly into the hands of young children and help them develop a love of reading from the very beginning. What started in Sevier County has grown into an international program that has gifted hundreds of millions of books to children.

And when her neighbors needed help, Dolly showed up.

After wildfires devastated Sevier County in 2016, The Dollywood Foundation created the My People Fund, providing direct financial assistance to families as they began rebuilding their lives.

Walmart saw that same spirit firsthand following Hurricane Helene in 2024. Dolly joined Walmart leaders at a Supercenter in Newport, Tennessee, where she announced a personal $1 million donation to relief efforts. Her East Tennessee businesses and The Dollywood Foundation pledged another $1 million, while Walmart, Sam’s Club and the Walmart Foundation increased their commitment to relief efforts across impacted communities to $10 million.

It was one more example of something Dolly demonstrated throughout her life: helping others doesn’t always begin with a grand gesture. It begins by seeing a need and deciding to do something.

Find your way to give

That spirit can continue long after September 25.

Through Walmart Spark Good, customers can support eligible nonprofits and schools they care about by rounding up purchases made on Walmart.com or in the Walmart app. They can also shop Spark Good Registries, purchasing items organizations have identified as most needed. Walmart and Sam’s Club also support customer and member giving through select in-store and online fundraising campaigns benefiting organizations across the country.

Whether it’s a few cents at checkout, a book for a child, a needed item for a local organization or simply giving your time, Dolly’s example is a reminder that small acts can add up to something much bigger.

And for those looking to celebrate Dolly in another way, Walmart also offers a collection of Dolly Parton products, from baking favorites to other items inspired by her signature style and personality.

On Give Like Dolly Day — and any day — that may be one of the best ways to keep her legacy shining.