“The program exceeded our expectations,” says Project Manager Ed Salaszar. “A simple reading program expanded into a combination of reading with and mentoring the students.”
In addition to these meetings, Elks also hold book readings, which are popular with students and teachers. Elks bring a new book, and distribute a copy to each student so they can read along. Youth then take their new books home to build their home libraries. “The kids look forward to it,” Salaszar continues. “And the teachers and the Elks volunteers really enjoy it.”
“We’ve seen tremendous progress in the small group of kids that the Elks have worked with as far as their behavior and learning,” Guiterriez says. “These kids look forward to every day when they know their person is coming to spend time with them, to mentor them, and to read to them.”
The Elks National Foundation helps Lodges serve their communities in significant and ongoing ways by awarding Impact Grants of up to $10,000. Any Lodge can apply for these competitive grants. To find out more about Impact Grants and the Community Investments Program, visit www.elks.org/enf/community.