When your world is opened up through reading

This story is part of a series of stories supporting our Summer Giving Campaign. Please support our campaign which will be directed our Annual Fund, supporting girls and boys education for 2024. Thank you.

When your world is opened up through reading

Nine-year-old Jenni had struggled with reading for years until her mother found help through Project Somos. Jenni comes to us three times a week, and thanks to the dedicated efforts of her teachers, Rosario and Rafa, and our collection of engaging books, Jenni is steadily improving her reading skills. Her school teacher recently noticed significant improvements and urged Jenni’s mother to keep sending her to Project Somos. Not only has Jenni’s reading improved, but her abilities in other subjects have also soared.

At Project Somos, literacy is a cornerstone of our programs. We offer a dedicated library, reading corners in each classroom, and participate in a Rotary-funded traveling library project that brings new books with comprehension activities to inspire reading and creativity. These initiatives are designed to create a nurturing and stimulating environment that encourages children to develop a love for reading, which is essential for their academic growth and personal development.

In the indigenous areas of Guatemala, the literacy rate is just 66%. Reading is a vital skill, and without it, many children fall behind and eventually drop out of school. This is a significant challenge, but Project Somos is committed to making a difference. Through our various literacy programs, we aim to bridge the educational gap and provide children with the tools they need to succeed.

Jenni’s story is a testament to the impact of our work. When she first started, Jenni struggled to read even simple sentences. But with the personalized attention from Rosario and Rafa, along with the variety of books available, she began to make progress. The books are carefully selected to be engaging and appropriate for different reading levels, which has been crucial in keeping Jenni motivated.

Moreover, our teachers use innovative teaching methods to help children like Jenni improve their reading skills. They incorporate games, storytelling, and interactive activities to make learning fun and effective. This holistic approach not only enhances literacy but also boosts the children’s confidence and interest in other subjects.

Jenni’s transformation has been remarkable. Her mother is thrilled to see her daughter’s newfound enthusiasm for reading and learning. Jenni’s success story is just one of many at Project Somos, where we strive to create a brighter future for the children in our community. Through dedication, compassion, and a strong focus on literacy, we are helping to shape the next generation of readers and leaders in Guatemala.

You can help change the lives of children like Jenni by supporting our Summer Giving Campaign – your contribution will make a profound difference.

Your help is greatly appreciated today.

Love Sarah