The United Way of Greater Milwaukee Emerging Leaders recently launched a new Emerging Readers program that provides an opportunity for volunteers to share the joy of reading with local children. The organization is still looking to fill some of those volunteer positions.
“Getting involved in the Emerging Readers program is an easy and meaningful way for a busy family to give back to the community,” said Margy Stratton, United Way of Greater Milwaukee board member and Emerging Leader. “It’s great to be able to teach our kids the importance of giving back, while having fun sharing favorite books and providing words of encouragement.”
The program matches volunteers with a family or a child at one of United Way’s program partner agencies. United Way facilitates a book swap three times a year as part of a year-long program.
Volunteers choose age-appropriate reading materials including new or gently used books and magazines for their partner child or family. Volunteers are encouraged to prepare a reading package for the partner family. Suggestions include sending hand-written notes of encouragement or book reviews to accompany their reading selections.
More than 180 local children have been matched with 140 United Way donors to receive new books and reading supplies three times throughout 2012. Children receiving books are between the ages of 2 and 13 and participate in one of the organizations partner agencies including Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Milwaukee, Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, COA Youth and Family Centers and the United Community Center. If you are interested in getting involved please contact Jessica Wagner-Schultz at jwagnerschultz@unitedwaymilwaukee.org.
