Listen up, Oregonians. If you're not aware of SMART (Start Making A Reader Today), you need to be. Since 1992 they've been helping Oregon children become confident readers with their variety of programs. They give young children access to books in their homes, and send their volunteers out to the field to read to children who might only be exposed to reading at school.
How can we help?
Unfortunately, SMART lost much of their funding in this year's budget cuts so they need our help now more than ever. There's many ways to help SMART deliver on their vision of an Oregon where every child can read and is empowered to learn. Here's just a few:
- If you're on Facebook, check out their Giving page where you can donate $5 which buys two books for a low-income child to take home.
- Donate your time. SMART needs volunteers to read to young children for just one hour each week. Or sign up to be a substitute if you can't commit to a weekly donation.
- Purchase a $5 Macy's Shop for a Cause ticket that gives back to you - on October 17, you get valuable shopping discounts and a chance to win a $500 gift card. Get the details here.
- Is your company looking for a way to collectively make a difference in your community? Put your own fundraiser together (here are some ideas to get you started). Sponsor an event. Ask your employer to reward those who volunteer to read or offer a matching program.
There are many easy ways to help young children develop their reading skills. You might have some new ideas of your own. Feel free to share them here.
Comments