The Lubbock Area United Way hosts the event where more than 600 community volunteers read the same book simultaneously in every second-grade classroom across 10 school districts and two charter schools in Lubbock County. This year, volunteers read the book Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae and Guy Parker-Reese.

“United Way makes incredible impacts in our community by funding its 23 community partners, but they are also a driving force to raise awareness about major issues in our community as well,” said Keith Patrick, Frenship ISD Director of Strategic Initiatives. “United We Read is a public representation of their focus on early childhood education and improving literacy for every student in Lubbock County. We’re so thankful for their partnership and willingness to put in the effort to bring the importance of literacy to the forefront.”

Patrick was one of many Frenship administrators who volunteered for the day. Other volunteers included Frenship ISD school board members, Frenship Foundation board members, Central Office staff, and Frenship parents and community members.

“Frenship ISD wouldn’t be what it is without an involved and dedicated community, and the same is true for districts all over Lubbock. United Way does an incredible job leveraging their unique place in our community to mobilize hundreds of volunteers to join us for this great day. It’s another example of what an incredible place the South Plains really is to see so many people take time out of their day to invest in our kids! We’re so thankful for everyone who steps up in this way and so many others to support the students in our schools,” said Patrick.

After volunteers and Frenship helpers read the book, the students made their own giraffe and got to test out their dancing skills. Additionally, all second graders, were given the book to take home so they can continue to practice their reading skills with their families.

To learn more about Lubbock Area United Way and the United We Read program, CLICK HERE.