Allow me to begin this article by saying you may encounter all kinds of bias here, because I am very fortunate to have been a small part of Read Muskegon over the years and have watched the work going on from way back when the organization got started in a couple of rooms in the upstairs of a Downtown Muskegon church. They have grown in both operating space as well as reach in to the community focusing on how damaging that illiteracy is and how long the effects of it permeate everything in our community. I was afforded a very heavy focus on reading when I was little and it was maintained all my young life, not everyone gets that.
It's surprising today that out literacy rates are really not changing much. It's a generational issue, it's an educational issue and it's an issue that doesn't really get better over time in an individuals life if it gets put on a back burner. It becomes a hidden shame for so many. Seeing a child read is an amazing thing, but when you see an adult that has struggled for so long, and hidden their embarrassment over what others assume they know, when you see them be able to read, write and comprehend for the first time, it's like watching a miracle unfold right before your eyes. Read Muskegon provides these opportunities for readers of every age and every level. From kids who struggle to the older generation who need a different approach, the tools and talent all come together to make these monumental life changes for people. They are an asset to our community beyond measure. 
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Your input is being requested. It's easy this time too because this years Literacy Summit is all going to be online and hosted via the digital platform means that anyone can be a part and can listen and join in on the discussion from anywhere. You'll be able to hear from some key speakers like Sharon Darling who founded the National Center for Families Learning, Poppy Siaz-Hernandez, Equity & Inclusion Officer, Office of Governor Whitmer and more. From there, groups will gather into breakout sessions to talk economic opportunity, community action, education and neighborhood and community leadership. The reading part of all they do at Read Muskegon is awesome, but as you can see here, the involvement and community building that goes along with it, that's the big treasure.
Melissa Moore is the Executive Director of Read Muskegon and we caught up to learn a little more about the program, some statistics about literacy in Muskegon and the upcoming program on February 23rd at 9am. Please, take a listen and get involved, you won't even need to leave your house.
It's a great way to be a part of something bigger than yourself and a way to leave a legacy. The amazing gift to be able to give to teach someone to read is incredible. Here, all that's being asked for is your input on how everything can work together to make it happen for many. It's a tremendous learning opportunity for anyone attending and it's also an amazing way to be heard along with acquiring the knowledge! If you'd like to register to attend, please, click on the logo below or scan the QR Code on the photo and get signed up. Our many thanks to Melissa Moore and her staff at Read Muskegon for the incredible things they make happen every day here in town.
