Meet Dave Grunenwald: The Children’s Book Author Bringing Cleveland Food Bank’s Story to Life!

After a successful career in accounting and real estate, Dave Grunenwald has turned his focus to something new: writing children’s books with purpose.

A Youngstown native, Grunenwald started by creating activity books for his grandchildren and close friends. Now, he’s on a mission to promote community service through his latest work, “Lucas & Emily’s Food Bank Adventure.” This book is part of his “Lucas & Emily” series, which encourages kids to give back.

Grunenwald’s inspiration comes from volunteering at the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. He wants to highlight smaller outreach programs that can make a difference, like the “Sandwich People,” a local group that provides lunches for those experiencing homelessness. “When I saw the work they do, I felt moved to write about it,” he shares.

His philosophy? If someone has a choice between buying a book or donating to the Food Bank, he hopes they choose to help others. “Real-world giving matters more than book sales,” he emphasizes.

Looking ahead, Grunenwald plans to feature the Cleveland Kids’ Book Bank in his next book, which provides free books to kids in Northeast Ohio. His experience there left him in awe. “The volunteers are dedicated, and the organization is impressive,” he says.

Growing up in a large family has shaped Grunenwald’s outlook. He cherishes time with his grandchildren and started writing to create meaningful experiences for kids. He initially crafted checklists and challenges, eventually leading to his six “Grandparent Merit Badges” books. These provide budget-friendly, hands-on activities to strengthen family bonds.

All of Grunenwald’s 17 books are published by Halo Publishing International, featuring colorful illustrations by Bonnie Lemaire. “Working with Dave has been a blast,” Lemaire says. “The stories are always full of adventure.”

With 55 nieces and nephews, Grunenwald finds joy in being a grandfather. “It’s different,” he remarks, “but my grandkids bring me such happiness.” Even in retirement, he says he’s busier than ever. “Human connection is essential. My books encourage people to put down their phones and engage with the world.”

Grunenwald’s journey reflects a growing trend among authors who use their platforms for social good. As more writers like him focus on community impact, storytelling becomes a powerful tool for change. Research shows that children exposed to stories about kindness and giving are more likely to practice empathy. This is a significant shift in how literature can influence young minds today.

By combining storytelling with a cause, Grunenwald not only entertains but also educates. His work resonates with families, encouraging them to make a difference in their communities.

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