A group of volunteers from GEO Reentry Services’ New Jersey Alumni Services and staff from Delaney Hall in Newark took part in “Celebrity Read,” sponsored by the United Way of Newark on February 28. The GEO Reentry team members joined the community service event with members of Newark’s Fire Department, in conjunction with the Newark Arts and Festival Committee. The GEO team were celebrity readers at the Newark Educators Community Charter School.
United Way’s “Celebrity Read,” aims
to gather volunteers for a morning of sharing books and reading to Pre-K through 4th grade elementary students in the community. Taking place during the month of February, this year’s theme was “A Community that Reads Together Succeeds Together.” Groups of volunteers go to a selected school each year and join students for a morning of reading.
“We're already in the business of helping change lives,” said Roy Becker- Rowley, Facility Director of Delaney Hall. “This opportunity was extra rewarding because it gave our staff the opportunity to impact the lives of the youngest members of the community through the joy of reading.”
“This was a great day of community service,” said Arthur Townes, New Jersey Manager of Alumni Services. “The GEO group recognizes the importance of contributing to children’s lives by emphasizing the value of reading. We enjoyed bringing a positive message.”
The GEO Reentry team enjoyed an uplifting opportunity to share the importance of reading with the elementary school students. A rewarding experience for both Alumni Services and Delaney Hall staff, it was a chance to uphold the mission of helping others and carrying the message of hope.
