The joy of reading and its immeasurable benefits drive the mission of the South Sound Reading Foundation. The seemingly simple act of reading to your children 20 minutes a day literally changes the trajectory of their lives. There’s improved brain health, family bonding, and school readiness. The South Sound Reading Foundation is a comprehensive resource for our community’s youth, parents, and educators.
Educate Families on the Importance of Reading
The Foundation hosts literacy nights, parenting workshops, and book events at schools and various locations. Parents can receive a book at a birthing class or their child’s delivery. “It really impacted me,” remembers Jennifer Williamson Forester, Executive Director. Many years ago, that gift helped her fully understand that reading to her children 20 minutes a day could become part of her daily routine.
Reading Engagement
“We want kids to be excited about reading,” says Williamson Forester. The mobile van goes to community book talks and places such as the Boys & Girls Club. Annually, the Foundation provides a whopping 80,000 free books to our youth, up from previous years at 50,000.
Free Books for Kids!
“This is a huge piece of our programming and focus,” says Jennifer. Kids get to pick out a book that reflects their interests whether it’s sharks, weather, or dinosaurs. The power of self-selected books can spark a lifelong interest in reading.
Bag O’Books
Each month, families can order a bag of books based on ages and interests. This is primarily for low-income and underserved families but is open to all. Building home libraries is fun and exciting.
Books for Teachers and Homeschoolers
The second Saturday of the month, teachers can browse a collection of free books to use in their classrooms.
Ways to Help and Volunteer
The South Sound Reading Foundation welcomes your gently used books for readers from birth to 18 years of age. You, as an individual or group, can volunteer to clean, sort and track incoming donations. Check the website for other opportunities.
The organization is supported by the local school districts and housed by the North Thurston School District.
South Sound Reading Foundation
200 Sleater Kinney Rd SE, Olympia
360.412.4499
southsoundreading.org
BY MARY ELLEN PSALTIS