Celebrated on June 16 every year to commemorate the achievements and future challenges of Africa, and to celebrate the heritage of African American children. Information from the United States Fund for UNICEF, 125 Maiden Lane, 11th Floor, New York, NY

A day to higlight the importance of reading, particularly from a multicultural, international perspective. Sponsored on this date each year by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization and the International Reading Association. Information from International Reading Association, 800

A gloabal call for ceasefire and nonviolence as well as a day devoted to commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples. Information from United Nations Public Inquiries Unit, Room GA-57, New York,

Observed as a global advocacy and fund-raising campaign to help children learn about different countries and cultures. On October 31 (Halloween), children "Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF" to raise funds for their peers in less-developed countries. For more information and mateirals, contact

A week to renew our commitment to instill values in young people and encourage all Americans to remember the importance of good character. Sponsored by the Josephson Institue of Ethics, 9841 Airport Boulevard, Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA 90045. Phone:

Always observed the third full week in October. Poster Contest Theme for 2012: "Stand Back from the Yellow and Black." Sponsored by the National Association for Pupil Transportation, 1840 Western Avenue, Albany, NY 12203. Phone: 800-989-NAPT Fax: 518-218-0867 Email: info@napt.org

To encourage children, youth and adults to volunteer on behalf of their communities. Sponsored by the Points of Light Foundation and USA WEEKEND magazine. Phone: 800-416-3824 Email: diffday@usaweekend.com www.usaweekend.com/section/MDDAY

Cosponsored by the National Education Association, National PTA, and other national education associations to keep the public aware of what schools are doing. American Education Week is always observed the week before Thanksgiving. Education Support Professionals Day is observed the

Information and materials available from Project Appleseed, 520 Melville Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63130-4506. Phone: 314-292-9760 Fax: 314-725-2319 Email: headquarters@projectappleseed.org www.projectappleseed.org

Recognized Thanksgiving week every year to show appreciation to families and their role in caring for individual members, thus contributing to a strong society. Sponsored by Alliance for Children and Families, 11700 West Lake Park Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53224. Phone: