TakingITGlobal

29 # R I S I N G Y O U T H C O M M U N I T Y I M P A C T V O L . 2 I n Selkirk, Manitoba, the month of February is dedicated to celebrating the joys of reading and the power of literacy. In fact, the community has dubbed February "I Love to Read Month". Kaitlyn Lightfoot wanted to elevate the traditional experience of this month by organizing new events so that all children could take part in fun and free literacy activities. She put together four different virtual reading events, as well as an in- person drive-thru story event. Since the winter months in Selkirk are extremely cold, Kaitlyn wanted to find ways to keep her community engaged. "Our outdoor drive-thru story event was just the thing our community needed to get families out together on a Sunday afternoon while staying warm in their vehicles," Kaitlyn explained. "For families not wanting to venture out into the cold, our virtual events were the perfect activity for them to enjoy from the comfort of their home!" Her virtual story event provided 39 learners with 95 books and activity kits, while the drive-thru story event provided 54 children with free books and activity kits. As one parent enthusiastically shared, "My children were very excited about the new books, activities, treats, and stickers." Kaitlyn created a fun and inclusive environment for her community, especially the children, to take part in and stay connected. "We got more reading in the month than any other so far," another parent happily shared. "My son is now reading at a Grade 3 level at 7 years old!" For families not wanting to venture out into the cold, our virtual events were the perfect activity for them to enjoy from the comfort of their home! Celebrating the Joy of Reading Kaitlyn Lightfoot A Selkirk newspaper article featuring Kaitlyn and her project! A special thank you to Selkirk Friendship Centre for sharing the #RisingYouth grant opportunity with Kaitlyn to make this project possible.

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