Men IN Action READ: Showing local students that people in their community care.
Last year, I was able to walk around one of Avon’s elementary schools while our male volunteers read their book for Men IN Action READ day. It was a lot of fun to peek into rooms and see kiddos sit, listening to the men read about a boy, Eli, who teamed up with his community to save their library after a natural disaster.
What struck me as I walked around is I saw 60 and 70 year old men in retirement choose to wake up early and read to the kids. I saw young-adults and middle-aged men who took time off their jobs to invest in youth. And, I saw teenage boys who got out of class to come spend time teaching younger kids about healthy values. OK, maybe that last one isn’t as altruistic as the others, but still, they showed up!
Men IN Action READ matters because it is one of the most significant ways we support children and help break the cycle of abuse. When you volunteer with READ, you show local students that people in their community care. That you want what’s best for them and their future.
Preventing violence is an enormous task, and it requires all of us. Men IN Action READ uniquely supports several developmental assets that young people need – such as a caring school climate, adult role models, commitment to learning, and more.
This year, students will hear the story of Penelope. She’s a young perfectionist. But when she oversleeps one day, her entire routine is thrown for a loop. From wearing mismatched socks to receiving her first-ever “B”, Penelope must figure out how to survive this imperfect day. This encouraging and funny story will speak directly to students who face perfectionism and other forms of anxiety.
On March 19, Men IN Action READ volunteers will be in more than 500 classrooms reading to more than 10,000 students. Readers will visit elementary schools in all six public school districts and four private schools in Hendricks County.
I am overwhelmed every year. Imagine – men showing up for kids in every corner of Hendricks County with love, support and care.
If you are already registered, thank you. Please encourage your friends to sign up.
Men, if you haven’t signed up yet, we need you.
Ladies, please share this with the men in your life. Encourage them to register. Forward them this link.
To sign up, visit ShelteringWings.org/READ. You can pick the school district where you want to read. If you have a child in elementary school, make a note. We can schedule you to read in their school.
On Thursday, March 19, you’ll meet with other readers in your community to pick up your book, shirt and instructions. Then you’ll report to the school to read during first period. Reading and interacting with students take 30 to 45 minutes. After that, you’re done.
You won’t regret spending just a few hours with Men IN Action READ. This will be a day to change lives. By giving just a few hours, you will help to foster safety, stability and a nurturing experience for students. The children need you.
With gratitude,
Cassie Mecklenburg
Executive Director
