Volunteers promote literacy with Day of Service

FALLBROOK – According to organizers, the 19th annual Fallbrook A Leer/Reading & Family Literacy Project, Cesar Chavez Day of Service & Learning on Saturday, April 15, was a huge success. With more than 150 families in attendance, including 175 parents and approximately 220 children, this day of literacy had an important impact on the local community.

Thirty pre-K children participated in the Children's Literacy Arts & Crafts Circuit and created beautiful works of art, while approximately 190 elementary school children in grades K through 6 were read to by 30 volunteer readers on the Literacy Reading Circuit.

Students received free school backpacks filled with supplies, as well as free books to take home. While students were participating in their reading and arts activities, parents also participated in parenting classes, including reading workshops conducted by expert presenters. One lucky family was the winner of a notebook computer and printer, worth $800, donated by members of the Fallbrook Democratic Club.

This event would not be possible without the leadership of co-chairs Leticia Maldonado Stamos and Maria Gomez, as well as the organizing committee of approximately 30 community members and an additional 90 student volunteers from Fallbrook and Bonsall high schools.

Maldonado Stamos said, "A big thank you goes to this year's featured special guest Andres Chavez, grandson of the great Cesar Chavez, whose leadership was the inspiration for Leer A Fallbrook's annual Day of Service and Literacy."

Chavez spoke to the audience about the importance of the Cesar Chavez legacy in improving the lives of Latino community members. He also highlighted the importance and joy of reading and education being crucial for the success of all children.

2024 will be Leer A Fallbrook's 20th anniversary. Plans are already in the works for that reading and family literacy event and details will be published when they are available.

Submitted by Fallbrook A Leer.