Reading books is an activity some of us find so simple and take advantage of each day. Some of us dread reading, whether it's for a paper or class assignment. On the other hand, some individuals truly enjoy reading, and use it as a "getaway" from stress. Moreover, we always seem to forget about those who aren't capable of reading, and those would give anything to read. We fail to realize that there are millions and millions of children and even adults who struggle to read everyday. Pi Beta Phi's philanthropy, Read. Lead. Achieve., strives to help those who suffer from illiteracy by donating books and dedicating time to those in need. In their efforts, they try to create a more literate and productive community.
Let me put this into perspective for you. One out of four children cannot read. Pi Beta Phi's passionate drive for literacy helps spark imagination and inspiration, while also stimulating a child's desire to learn. Nationwide Pi Phi chapters reach out locally to schools and communities who need help in their efforts to guide children to literacy and future success. In Oxford, Miss., the Mississippi Beta Chapter of Pi Beta Phi, volunteers locally at Leap Frog, Boys and Girls Club, Lafayette Elementary and Bramlett Elementary School.
Leap Frog is an after-school program for at-risk children in the Oxford City and Lafayette county schools. Pi Phi volunteers are partnered with first, second and third graders throughout the semester to improve their reading ability. Thanks to the continuing commitment and encouragement from the Pi Phi volunteers, over 75 percent of the "at risk" children finished the year at their reading level.
Pi Phi's also volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club in Oxford to provide kids fun and safe after school activities. Pi Phi's and their new friends participate in activities varying from one-on-one tutoring to an Easter Egg hunt.
Additionally, Pi Phi partnered with Lafayette Elementary to hold the Champions Are Readers program. Children from pre-K to the third grade participated in exciting reading activities with Pi Phis. At the end of the month-long program, it was evident that every child improved their reading ability.
Several Pi Phis also volunteer at Bramlett Elementary's after-school program, Reading Rockets. At-risk second graders are matched with a Pi Phi volunteer to improve their reading skills. By the end of the school year-long program, the kids are excited about reading and know that people care about their success, hard work and efforts.
All in all, nationally, Pi Phi has donated over $1 million to literacy foundations across the United States and Canada. Pi Beta Phi truly has a passion for helping children who struggle to read. Furthermore, by giving books and time to those children, Pi Beta Phi can help to eliminate illiteracy, one child at a time. To learn more about Read.Lead.Achieve click this here.
