United Way hosts countywide Dr. Seuss Reading Day
More than 50 volunteers participated in a countywide volunteer effort to read to more than 1,000 preschool through third-grade students in honor of Dr. Seuss' birthday on March 2.
United Way of Lake County hosted volunteers at Glen Flora Elementary in Waukegan, Green Bay Early Childhood Center in North Chicago and Pleviak Elementary in Lake Villa.
During the opening remarks, United Way Reading Success Program staff shared the importance of early childhood literacy and the impact of celebrating reading holidays like Dr. Seuss' birthday.
"Prioritizing reading makes a huge difference in every child's life, both inside and outside the classroom. For young children to experience volunteers visiting their classroom for Dr. Seuss' birthday and enthusiastically share their love of reading with them is really impactful. The impression the students are left with will help open their minds to what reading will allow them to do: imagine, explore, learn and solve problems," said Sue Baehr, United Way of Lake County's Reading Success Program manager.
Volunteers read Dr. Seuss books to classrooms and talked about their careers and the importance of reading. Volunteers included professionals from Abbott, AbbVie, Trustmark Companies and many other Lake County companies.
"We are thrilled to have many Lake County businesses represented at our Dr. Seuss Reading Event today," said Kristi Long, president and CEO of United Way of Lake County.
"Our volunteers make this such a fun event for the students. Their enthusiasm and eagerness are just what the children need to instill a love of reading at an early age."
To learn how you can get involved with United Way's Reading Success Program, visit www.LIVEUNITEDlakecounty.org.