October 22, 2011
Improving literacy among kids in Title-1 schools can be challenge. The challenge was met head-on by Altrusa of Atlanta on October 22, 2011, Make A Difference Day. Attaching rhythm and music to reading proved to be a perfect combination to spike the interest of almost fifty children from Sandy Springs schools served by the Sandy Springs Mission managed by Felix Lora.
Thirteen volunteers from Altrusa of Atlanta greeted the kids around 9:30am. Once settled, they were treated to a story from a professional storyteller, Cecilia Romero, who instantly captured the student’s attention. Ms. Romero engaged the students further while playing the guitar with interactive songs. The students were then given snacks and divided up by their grade level and guided by the volunteers to practice reading and signing making the mood even more jovial. Excitement level increased as the students all returned after their practice to perform what they read and learned by singing along to the music. Grade level by grade level, the kids performed starting off quite in the beginning but as their confidence grew, so did their voices.
Before they all lined up to leave at 1p.m., the children received the biggest treat of all. They all received the opportunity to choose three books they could take home. The fun of choosing their own book made the event even more memorable for the kids. Some of them said that they could hardly wait until they got home so that they could read the new books. For some, these are the only books they have to read at home. Seeing the delight and receiving heartfelt thanks from the children is more than any volunteer could ever hope for. Special thanks to Linary Kingdon for developing the agenda for the day and the many volunteers, without whom, the opportunity to Make A Difference would not have been possible.
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