United Way of Santa Barbara County Young Leaders Society volunteers at the Franklin Elementary School Library during the United We Read event. Courtesy photo.
CENTRAL COAST — United Way of Santa Barbara County’s (UWSBC) Young Leaders Society (YLS) visited Franklin and El Camino Elementary Schools to share a passion for reading and donate books and funds to both campuses as part of the United We Read volunteer event on Feb. 24.
This year’s 8th Annual United We Read matched over 25 young professionals with students in K-6th grade classrooms. The volunteers picked out, purchased and donated the books they read to the classes. The event encourages students to engage in reading and inspires them to read on their own and with their parents.
“One of the best experiences I have is when a kid comes up and is able to talk through a word and get an understanding of what it is,” said Brad Smith, Cottage Health Recruiter who Co-Chairs the YLS Executive Committee. “Their eyes light up when they can enunciate it. Seeing that and having them get those little wins is great.”
As part of United We Read, UWSBC presented a check to the elementary schools to purchase additional books and reading supplies. These funds were raised at YLS’ annual United We Bowl fundraiser, which took place in November. United We Read is part of a larger effort spearheaded by UWSBC focusing on reaching community driven education goals.
About Young Leaders Society: Young Leaders Society (YLS) was formed to provide community involvement and personal development opportunities for young professionals. This unique and dynamic group offers its members multiple avenues to become involved with various United Way and community initiatives, to directly make a difference in people’s lives, and to ultimately become leaders in our community. For more information, please visit http://www.unitedwelead.org/.
About United Way of Santa Barbara County: United Way of Santa Barbara County (UWSBC) has the unique and positive vision that “in our community, everyone has a hopeful future.” Since 1923, UWSBC has served Santa Barbara County community through funding, volunteer development, and by utilizing its own unique initiatives that involve dozens of local non-profit and public sector agencies. UWSBC’s local community driven Power of Partnership™ priorities help children, families & seniors with a focus on Education, Income and Health.