Youth Nominated For Light Of Literacy Awards

WHAT: Light of Literacy Award Nominees

WHO: Roman Fuentes, Jock Simon, Cleon Deal, Quincy Todd, Caleb Grall

WHEN: April 11, 2013

WHERE: The Fountains, Salisbury, MD

SALISBURY, MD – “These five young men travel to various schools in the community to promote character education and positive values by reading to primary school aged children. They read one non-fiction and one fiction book based on a certain positive character trait (honesty, responsibility, caring, etc.) to a small group of students in the school’s library. Time is spent afterwards, focusing on building positive relationships and serving as strong male role models that promote literacy and athleticism. They are a shining example of good readers and great leaders,” says Erin Neal, their Advisor and Librarian at Parkside High School.

The Friends of Wicomico Public Library have received so many wonderful stories like this one as nominations for the Light of Literacy Awards that will be presented at The Fountains in Salisbury on April 11, from 8 until 10 a.m. This breakfast reception will recognize and honor individuals and organizations in our community that help others improve their reading and literacy skills, thereby giving them a necessary tool to become lifelong learners. Twenty-five nominations were received for the seven awards being given, including the nomination above by their advisor and librarian for five high school boys who have really made a difference for children younger than themselves.

Honorary Chair Mitzi Perdue says, “Literacy is the most effective, least expensive, and longest lasting approach to raising incomes and improving health. This is true whether we're looking at individuals or the community as a whole. We know that illiteracy almost always means poverty, and along with poverty, greater risk of poor health. If we want the educated and healthy workforce that underpins an economically thriving community, we need literacy. The Wicomico Public Library's efforts to promote literacy are a priceless gift to the community.”

Awards are sponsored by local businesses, book clubs, and civic organizations. Nominations were solicited from the public and judged based on several criteria including individual dedication, length of service and impact on the community. Award winners will be recognized with a trophy at the awards ceremony.

“As a leader in literacy, the Wicomico Public Library understands the crucial role that literacy skills play in empowering individuals to succeed. The Friends of the Library want to take this opportunity to recognize those individuals who are illuminating the community through literacy,” says Susan Bounds, Chair of the Friends of Wicomico Public Library.

If you would like to attend this inspirational event, tickets are $15.00 and now on sale at the Main Library, Centre Branch and Pittsville Branch.

The Friends of the Wicomico Public Library support the library through fundraising & advocacy, by raising awareness of the Library as a community educational institution, and by helping to provide events that are of interest to a diverse community.

More information on the Light of Literacy Awards may be found at www.lightofliteracy.org