Wanted: A Few Good Men

Ron Schmulach had a very simple request for the men of the West Polk County Rotary Club at their regular meeting, which was held at Toyota of Des Moines in Grimes.   Consider volunteering through the Read to Lead program and possibly change a life for the better.  

 

 

Ron is himself a volunteer with the program, which is geared toward increasing graduation rates in the Des Moines Public School system.  The program works to find suitable male volunteers because many kids don't have a male role model that provides positive attention, guidance, and encouragement to follow their dreams.  The task is simple; commit to reading with a student for 30 minutes, once a week, during the school year.

Don't have time?  The weekly commitment can be shared with up to two other volunteers if your schedule will not allow you to make it every week.

 

Why is it important?  According to cited studies, a child's reading level at grade 4 is the biggest determining factor of that person's reading level as an adult.  It is a critical time in a child's life that will impact their ability to succeed for the rest of their life.   If you can't read as an adult, the likelihood of you having financial success is greatly diminished, and the likelihood that you will spend time in prison is greatly enhanced.

 

How can you help?  Visit www.ReadtoLead.me and click on the "Sign up to Read Here" link. The site will give you all the details you need to help a young student have a better shot at being a productive citizen of our community.

 

The West Polk County Rotarians thank Ron for his presentation and look forward to seeing the Read to Lead program succeed in their mission.