Recognition of the need to read is alive in Mid-Willamette Valley [Marion, Polk, Linn and Benton counties]

05.28.12
Staff

WHAT’S HAPPENING: Right in step with the spring and early summer flowers, programs and events that honor literacy are blooming in Polk, Marion, Linn and Benton counties. Here are a couple worth your attention and time to participate in: 

  • Let’s Read with Foster Grandparent Mentors – A free 10-week summer reading program sponsored by the Albany Public Library. Help continue your children’s love of reading and improve and maintain their reading skills over the summer by having them participate in 30-minute one-on-one reading sessions with a trained, screened volunteer foster grandparent. This program runs June 18 through Aug. 24, Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the library. The library is located at 2450 14th Ave. SE. Call 541-917-7760 to reserve your weekly sessions.
     
  • The Reading for All Literacy Awards - The Marion County Children and Families Department is sponsoring the awards and is now accepting nominations of community members who are making efforts to improve literacy in Marion County. Nominees can be youth, adults, organizations or businesses. Nominations, due by June 11, can be submitted online, by mail to P.O. Box 14500, Salem 97309, or by delivery to the Marion County Children and Families Department, 451 Division St. NE, Suite 200, Salem. All nominees will be recognized during the Reading for All celebration at the Keiser Volcanoes baseball game on June 29. Finalists will receive their awards during the Marion County Fair Family Day on July 15.

Here are some examples of a person or organization worthy of this award:

  • Youth or adults who have made personal gains in reading, have a strong commitment to reading books or have helped others to read.
     
  • Outstanding teachers, parents, coaches or librarians who have gone above and beyond their regular duties to promote a literacy project or program in the community.
     
  • Businesses or community organizations that allow their employees to volunteer as readers or tutors, or have engaged in other notable efforts related to literacy.