Pauline A. Sciaretta
As many people already know, learning to read at an early age plays an integral part in a child’s development and success in life. According to a Scholastic Access to Books report, children in low-income neighborhoods had just one book per 300 kids. In middle- and upper-income neighborhoods, there are 13 books for every child. I am sure you have heard the expression, “It takes a village to raise a child.” You can make a major, positive difference in a child’s life!
Southwest Human Development is Arizona’s largest nonprofit dedicated to early childhood development. SWHD is in need of your help! Become a partner in their Early Literacy Program by donating new or gently used children’s books or by sponsoring a “Little Free Library.” Books may be brought to your community’s Clubhouse and placed in a box that displays a letter from the Southwest Human Development. This is an ongoing project and not for just the holiday season. We are looking for volunteers who will oversee the collection of books in your community. If there is no collection box available at your Clubhouse or if you would like to volunteer your services, please call Pauline Sciaretta at 480-586-5462.
Little Free Libraries are “take one, leave one” book stations that are placed in strategic locations throughout low-income neighborhoods. We are seeking individual, corporate, or organization sponsors for each Little Free Library. Each library costs $500 for the building materials kit, to register, stock and maintain. Woodworkers might be interested in volunteering their services to build the little libraries. Please call me for more information. Thank you for choosing to make a positive difference in a child’s life!