October 8, 2019
Why I’m on a mission to bring books to kids
Andrea is a junior at Interlake High School in Bellevue, Washington, and founder of Book the Future.
Raised with my nose between the pages of my favorite books, I have loved to read and write for as long as I can remember. Throughout my childhood, I was always able to find solace in my favorite literary worlds and characters which is why I am a passionate advocate for youth literacy, today.
I believe that every child should have ample access to reading materials that reflect their experiences.
Making diverse books readily available for children is a crucial step towards giving them the agency to improve their futures. Providing access to books is especially important for kids who may not have many books in their home or may not have a library nearby.
Putting books into the hands of kids
My love of reading and ardent belief in the importance of early literacy education has inspired me to take action. Today, I am a junior at Interlake High School in Bellevue, Washington, and the founder and president of Book the Future.
Book the Future is an organization dedicated to global youth literacy. With Book the Future, my goal is to empower youth through the various avenues that literature offers. Our mission to advance literacy manifests through several programs. Our primary program makes reading resources available for all kids. We hold frequent book drives to support various literacy organizations. Ultimately, donated books are distributed to kids in need of additional reading materials.
In the course of two years, we’ve donated over 4,000 books to partner organizations. Our books have reached kids here in Seattle, across the US, and abroad.
Creating opportunities to connect
We also partner with local organizations to host events in the Greater Seattle area to promote literacy and foster creativity among youth. Our events create opportunities for expression and activism.
Other programs include literacy camps, writing workshops, read-a-thons, and more. Book the Future’s digital magazine, for example, showcases the talents and passions of teen activists around the nation, featuring pieces by writers, artists, and performers.
Our fall literacy campaign
After concluding our “Write the Future” summer workshop, we are launching our fall literacy campaign during National Book Month. This year, we will collect books for Reading Partners Seattle and their “Take Reading Home” program.
Maya Festinger, program manager for Reading Partners Seattle, acquainted me with the Reading Partners program. She explained the ins-and-outs of tutoring and the curriculum they use in their program. It’s so wonderful and inspiring to learn about the volunteers at Reading Partners who help further the cause for youth literacy.
Thank you, Reading Partners, for this opportunity to work together in support of youth literacy!
