Literacy Advocate

Reading has always come naturally and easy to me. However, for many, reading is a challenge, for a variety of reasons. My husband, Brad, is dyslexic. He has worked very hard to overcome his struggles with reading. Together, we read to our children, daughters Claire and Kyle, and son Ian, nearly every night when they were little. Brad and I not only witnessed the blossoming of our own young readers, but through a unique awards program in honor of Claire and her relationship with Brad, we’ve encouraged thousands of children in their reading journeys.

The C.A.R.E. Awards (Claire’s Awards for Reading Excellence) were established at the very first Claire’s Day children’s book festival in 2002. These special awards are given to children nominated as being the most improved readers in their schools. Each recipient receives a personalized certificate recognizing their accomplishment, and a coupon to choose their own book at the festival. Our C.A.R.E. Award winners have the chance to meet the authors and/or illustrators and have their new book personally signed at the festival. How cool is that?
Additionally, I volunteer to read through Read for Literacy’s Creating Young Readers program. Each week, I spend an hour reading with and to kindergarten students. Of all of the serving opportunities I have been blessed with, this weekly stint is my very favorite thing to do!