December is that wonderful month of "feel-good" traditions: family, food, music and giving. The more holiday seasons that pass, the more the Youth Link Team understands and appreciates the secret side of giving, the joy of seeing it received. This applies not only to tangible things that can be wrapped and tied with a bow, but also compliments, kindness and gifts of time.

James is currently a participant of our 321 Read Program. Read his story below to feel the true impact of the gift of time and compassion.

"I began 321 Read when I was in 1^st Grade. I had no idea what I was doing, and I felt very lost in the classroom. My teacher asked if I wanted extra help from a new friend. I said “YES!” because me and Mom's favorite way to end the day is to read a book during bedtime. I was nervous the first time I met Ms. Lisa but she was goofy and liked dinosaurs, so I knew she was okay. 

Our first few books, Ms. Lisa would read to me in different voices, and I just listened and laughed. Then, we would read together, and she would help me with the big words. Before I knew it, I was the one reading to Ms. Lisa without her help… most of the time.

When I started the program, the new book was my favorite part. The best bedtimes are when I have my new book from meeting with Ms. Lisa. I love showing off my new book and all its big words and Mom is always proud of me when I read to her. But as the year has gone on, I look forward more and more to the visits with Ms. Lisa. She always greets me with a hug and a big smile.

I recently won an award in my class for Most Improved Reader. My teacher even let me pick out something from the Treasure Bucket as a prize for my award. Mom and Ms. Lisa were so proud when I told them. I now love volunteering to read aloud to my class!"

Wow, what a story! We are so proud of James' improvement and the relationship built between him and Ms. Lisa. Our 321 Read Program is one of the many ways we assist with removing barriers for students. We strive for all students to have access to tutoring, mental health services, bare necessity resources and lasting relationships with valuable community volunteers to ensure they are set up for a successful future.

As we enter the new year, we hope to continue to impact the lives of our students. Only through the community and the strong partnerships we have built over the years has our organization been able to achieve so much. It is the community working together towards a common vision for our youth, that gives us energy and excitement for the year to come.

We extend the warmest of greetings for the holiday season to you and your family. May your holiday be full of joy and may you come back rested, refreshed and inspired for an even better year.