United Way’s Success By 6 is seeking volunteers who want to read with children on Friday, March 1 as part of the 14th Annual Community Read Aloud.

“We are looking for volunteers who love to read aloud and who want to share their enthusiasm for great books and stories with young children,” said Peter Lindsay of United Way. Volunteers are matched with a child care, a Head Start Center, or an elementary grade classroom from Kindergarten up to grade 6. 

The volunteers are asked to talk about why reading is important in their own lives and to bring a book or several books to read with the children. The usual visit in a classroom lasts between a half hour and an hour. Readers can request preferred locations in Harpswell, Brunswick, Sagadahoc County, or Lincoln County. Lindsay added, “We hope to have at least 200 volunteer readers registered by Friday, February 1st, so we encourage everyone to sign up today.”

To sign up today as a volunteer reader, go here. Those interested in volunteering may also call 207-443-9752 or email success@uwmcm.org to register.

Jan Wood, a volunteer last year from Bremen, wrote: “I spoke about how I read every day in my work as a nurse to know what the orders are for each patient. For fun, reading takes me all over the world!” 

Lisa Hargreaves, a Special Education Teacher at Great Salt Bay School in Damariscotta, shared her enthusiasm for the day from a teacher’s perspective:  “I feel that it's so important for our children to see other adults in the community show an interest in reading. They hear how important reading is from us all the time, but to hear others talk about their love for reading can be captivating.” 

The Community Read Aloud reinforces the importance of books and developing early literacy skills to about 4,000 Midcoast kids each year.  The event is part of Read Across America Day and celebrates the anniversary of Dr. Seuss’ birthday.  

For more information, contact Rachel or Peter at United Way at 207-443-9752 or go visit our website.