Reading is Fundamental

I am looking forward to working with local schools and other Vermont-based Reading is Fundamental Programs! Happy New Year!

NEWS

Contacts: Deb Grennon 802-868-5077 fgibookmobile@yahoo.com
Layla Wright-Contreras 202-536-3528, lwright@rif.org

Debora Ann Whitney Grennon of Franklin, Vermont named
Reading Is Fundamental Ambassador for VERMONT
Volunteers in 50 states to expand reach of nation’s oldest and largest
children and families’ literacy nonprofit organization
Franklin, Vermont, December 19, 2008, Reading Is Fundamental (RIF) announces that Deb Grennon of Franklin Grand Isle Bookmobile will represent Vermont as a RIF Ambassador.

The RIF Ambassadors initiative, sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company, bestows a working honor on RIF volunteer coordinators in 50 states, recognizing the valuable role of committed local volunteers in advancing RIF’s mission of a literate America in which all children have access to books and discover the joy and value of reading. The initiative will also provide a structure of support for selected ambassadors to promote children’s literacy and RIF in their communities.

Each RIF Ambassador will be responsible for three activities through 2009, allowing them to select an option best suited to their interest and the region they work in. Activities include blogging, children’s letter writing or collage campaigns, congressional member site visits or meetings, organizing a local gathering, outreach to a new group, photojournalism, publicity of their local RIF program, or engaging children in summer reading.

Locally, the Bookmobile has been a RIF program for three years. During this time, they have nurtured fruitful partnerships with Building Bright Futures Council, Early Childhood Programs, Head Start, Childcare Provider groups, Vermont Start with the Arts, and many local businesses to serve 652 children annually with RIF programming.

“RIF is able to help over 4.6 million children in the U.S. discover the joy of reading, thanks to engaged and committed volunteers,” said Carol H. Rasco, RIF president and CEO. “The RIF Ambassadors program will allow us to further connect will all coordinators in all states.”

Reading Is Fundamental, Inc. (RIF), founded in 1966, motivates children to read by working with them, their parents, and community members to make reading a fun and beneficial part of everyday life. RIF’s highest priority is reaching underserved children from birth to age 8. Through community volunteers in every state and U.S. territory, RIF provides 4.6 million children with 15 million new, free books and literacy resources each year. For more information and to access reading resources, visit RIF’s website at www.rif.org.
Discover the Joy!