Kids Incorporated Celebrates Community Support During Annual “Thanks for Reading” Event

Local community members came together to share the joy of reading with some of the Big Bend's youngest learners during Kids Incorporated of the Big Bend's annual Thanks for Reading event, held Oct. 5-9.

Throughout the week, over 70 volunteers visited four Kids Incorporated early learning centers in Tallahassee, Madison County and Monticello to read with children ages 0-3. Volunteers spent 20-30 minutes sharing stories with the children and donated the books they read, giving each classroom new stories to enjoy beyond the event.

"Early literacy begins long before a child ever enters a classroom for the first time," said LaFonda Heidel, Kids Incorporated CEO. "When adults take the time to read with young children, they're helping build language skills, curiosity and a love of learning while showing children that their community believes in them."

The week brought together both first-time and returning volunteers, including local community leaders who have made Thanks for Reading a tradition in previous years. Their participation gave children the opportunity to connect with people from throughout their community while making reading a special part of their day.

"Every year, we see how excited the children are to have someone new come into their classroom and share a story with them," said Isabella Kruger, Kids Incorporated Community Engagement Specialist. "Those 20 or 30 minutes can make a meaningful impression, and we're so grateful to everyone who took the time to read with our children and make this year's event special."

Held in recognition of National Book Month, Thanks for Reading highlights the important role shared reading plays in early childhood development. Kids Incorporated encourages families, volunteers and community members to continue making reading part of their everyday routines throughout the year.

To learn more about Kids Incorporated of the Big Bend, its early learning programs or volunteer opportunities, visit kidsincorporated.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Isabella Kruger, Community Engagement Specialist
Kids Incorporated of the Big Bend
(850) 414-9800 Ext. 101 (Office)
[email protected]