Instead of writing up my notes, which would not be as good as the two above, I've been thinking about children's literacy non-profits. Something Jon Scieszka said on the panel was that there are a lot of these literacy programs but they give the "crappiest books to the poorest schools."
So how do we get the BEST books out to kids? If the books the kids are presented with are great, engaging, thought provoking books they are going to want to read. And read them again and again.
Not only do many of them have programs for getting books into the hands of kids, they have wonderful volunteer opportunities and various events for us all to get involved with.
Here are is a VERY brief selection:
An Open Book - This organization was mentioned by Meg Medina during the panel.Their mission is to promote literacy in the Washington, DC area. They give books to disadvantaged children and teens and they also provide author and illustrator visits. (If you know of an organization like this near you, please share it below!)
Reading is Fundamental (RIF)- The largest children's literacy non-profit in the US. From their website, "We prepare and motivate children to read by delivering free books and literacy resources to those children and families who need them most. We inspire children to be lifelong readers through the power of choice. RIF provides new, free books for children to choose from and make their own."
National Children's Book and Literacy Alliance - Founded by award-winning authors and illustrators, the NCBLA believes that literacy is more then just the ability to read it is also about accessibility to quality literature that encourages the readers to dream and achieve those dreams. "We believe that literacy is essential to the development of responsible citizens in a democracy. The main goal of the NCBLA is to make issues related to young people’s literacy, literature, and libraries an ongoing priority on our national agenda." (from the NCBLA website.)
Children's Book Council (CBC)- "The Children’s Book Council is the national nonprofit trade association of children’s book publishers. The CBC offers children’s publishers the opportunity to work together on issues of importance to the industry at large, including educational programming, literacy advocacy, and collaborations with other national organizations." (from the CBC website.)
Raising a Reader - This organization focuses on family involvement in a child's reading adventure. According to their website, since they began they "have helped more than 900,000 families build and sustain reading routines in their homes, with special attention to highest-risk for educational failure."
Lastly, RIF has a current campaign called Book People Unite. You can see the short video and sign the pledge here.
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| The Enforcer already LOVES to read! |
I see our "mini library" at home as such a blessing and gift for our kids. I would love to be able to share the love of reading my family has with others. And hopefully, work towards making books accessible to all kids.
Do you know of a great children's literacy organization that we all should know about? Please share it below!
I would love to get a great list together over time.
Any ideas on other ways to get great books to kids?
