The Problem
Advocating for every child to experience the wonders of reading and be able to own their own books that teach about their passions! Many children do not have access or the money to own books at home.
Our Plan
Be able to acquire and obtain teen volunteerism through the organization of donating children’s books to an elementary school class.
Themes Addressed
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Education
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Kindness
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Literacy
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Sustainability
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The Benefit
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People
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Here is how the project went:
This experience has been without a doubt one of the most meaningful, and enlightening journeys I've been on! From the start when I was in my high school English class and received the email that I had received a Roots & Shoots Project Grant and practically told every single person I saw on the way to my librarians office that I, a girl who applied with a dream, was on my next step to making it a reality. I told her my plans and she was willing to help me get the resources I needed to reach the full potential of that award. Then, the school posting my achievement on their page, to the countless people who reach out with their support, I am proud to say I hope it inspired someone that you can do anything you put your mind to. I was able to contact the class and principal in which I would donate one book to every child and even that idea would soon be extended to a greater gift. I was able to customize, 20 drawstring bags each with the Roots & Shoots logo on them, and each child's name (including the teachers!). Inside each bag, not only did I include a hardcover childhood favorite of mine, "If You Give A Dog A Doughnut" but also a paperback book of, "Jane Goodall: A Champion of Chimpanzees" which explained the amazing leader who was able to gift these children literacy, and lastly some fun reading bookmarks and stickers for their new books! My peers helped me press each logo onto the bags and fill them with the goodies, as I posted each step of the way on my personal Instagram (@ella.bowcock) the exciting day was near! I went to the classroom, alongside my high school librarian and excitedly gave each student as they smiled from ear to ear the bags I had been working on for months! The result was indeed my goal, children who might not have a book at home, excited to read and ready for their next chapter inspiring the world into books!
Through this project I/we learned:
Always dream big because every dream can become a reality if you just put yourself out there.
What I/we might change:
I would love to do more than just one class, perhaps a whole grade!
My/our favorite part of this project was:
Giving each child their bags and seeing their smiles!
Some tips, tricks or fun facts about the project:
Don't be afraid to ask for help!