Be the CHANGE you want to see in the world. Books are essential. Reading is key. I am famous for saying “Just get a child to a third grade reading level, because then they can do basic math, but also function in society”. Most people openly stare as if to say ‘well of course older kids and adults can read at that level’. Well, they can’t. I have met teens in middle school who can not read at that level. I have met adults who can not read. I have met recent graduates from high school who can not read at that level. By volunteering to read with a child or children you can increase the chances of more and more people being able to read at adequate levels to function without struggle in society. Simple example WIC: Women Infants Children, if you are on this you need to be able to read what you can buy and since it is in ounces or pounds, you will also need to do math. Your paycheck, bills, employment applications and most recently VOTING BALLOTS: all things you need to be able to read and comprehend. Personally I try to instill the pure LOVE of reading and books, but at the heart of it I just want people to be able to read, and comprehend what they are reading, so that they have one less struggle in life. That they can succeed.
Two days a week I spend, at different times throughout the day, in 4 different classrooms, at three different schools, reading and listening to children read, helping them decipher words. Two children I read one on one with are refugees to this country from Pakistan.
I am at an advantage that I do not ‘work’ for an employer, so I have the time. But IF you have any morning or afternoon free, check in with your local public school or library and volunteer to read. We can make the world better by even an hour a week. Donate books to classrooms, teachers love to receive books. Donate books to shelters, social services centers, children’s hospitals. One book can make a huge difference.
Book on.
Peace.
