BIC Encourages Parents of Students to "Fight For Your Write"; Launches Initiative to Highlight Benefits of Writing

SHELTON, Conn., July 16, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Amid the evolution of smartphones and a decreased focus on writing in U.S. schools, BIC, a leading manufacturer of writing instruments, is introducing, "Fight For Your Write," a new crusade to energize parents and educators about the importance of writing and its continued benefits for children.

"Writing is an essential tool for learning," said Pam Allyn, Fight For Your Write spokesperson, literacy advocate, education expert, author and founder of LitWorld, a global organization that advocates for children's rights as readers, writers and learners.  "The practice of writing helps with learning letters and shapes, and can improve idea composition, expression and fine motor-skill development – all important foundations for future success."

According to Allyn, writing fosters children's emotional growth, helps develop critical thinking skills and improves academic achievement.

In support of the mission, BIC has launched www.BICFightForYourWrite.com, which offers information about the importance of writing and provides parents with ideas and activities to encourage writing in their home. BIC has also partnered with AdoptAClassroom.org, a not-for-profit organization with the mission to increase student success by empowering teachers and providing them with resources for their classrooms.

When parents visit www.BICFightForYourWrite.com, they are invited to sign a petition to encourage handwriting and enter for a chance to win one (1) of three (3) prize packs, which include BIC products. In return for each e-signature on the petition, from July 15, 2014 through August 12, 2014, BIC will donate one pen or pencil to a child in need (a minimum donation of 50,000 pencils or pens up to a donation of 100,000 pencils or pens) in school districts that have been identified by AdoptAClassroom.org*.

"BIC stationery products make writing fun," said Susan Lanzarotto, director—Stationery Marketing, BIC Consumer Products USA. "Writing comes in all different forms.  Our goal is to celebrate its benefits, to help inspire children to want to write and, through this partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org, to give them the tools they need to be successful."

"BIC's campaign really shines a light on the importance of writing in our lives, and also gives schools the tools they need to join in our crusade," added Allyn.

For more information, and to join the Fight for Your Write movement, visit www.BICFightForYourWrite.com.

*No Purchase Necessary. U.S. only, 18+. Visit www.bicfightforyourwrite.com for Official Rules and more details.

About BIC Consumer Products USA:
BIC Consumer Products USA (www.bicworldusa.com) is a leading manufacturer of stationery products, lighters and shavers. Since its founding more than 50 years ago, BIC has honored the tradition of providing high-quality, affordable products that are accessible to all. Through this unwavering dedication, BIC has become one of the most recognized brands in the world today, delivering "More for your money…Always!"

About AdoptAClassroom.org:
AdoptAClassroom.org is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to giving teachers a hand through the provision of essential classroom supplies so that students can succeed.  Many teachers spend as much as $1,000 annually of their own money to equip their classrooms.  Since 1998, AdoptAClassroom.org has raised over $20 million to benefit classrooms across America.

About Pam Allyn:
Pam Allyn, spokesperson for Fight for Your Write, is the Executive Director and founder of LitWorld, a global organization advocating for children's rights as readers, writers and learners. She is also the Executive Director and Founder of LitLife, a national organization dedicated to school improvement. Pam is an acclaimed author and is widely known as a motivational speaker and advocate for reading and writing as human rights that belong to all people. Her work has been featured on Good Morning America, The Today Show, Oprah Radio, The Huffington Post and in The New York Times.

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140716/127618

SOURCE BIC Consumer Products USA