This #GivingTuesday, I’m joining a global generosity movement and supporting Read Ahead, a New York City nonprofit dedicated to helping kids develop literacy and social-emotional skills they need to thrive.

Books have always been a constant in my life. As a child, they allowed me to become anyone in the span of 200 pages; a fearless warrior, a rebel fighting against a corrupt system, or just someone more confident than myself. In the moments when my shyness overcame me, I knew I could turn to those pages to give me a boost of confidence. Through its mentorship program, Read Ahead works to create community for kids across the city. The impact of reading cannot be understated. This program not only aims to strengthen student participants' reading comprehension skills, but more essentially, its objective is to create a space where kids are encouraged to read, and the love of reading is celebrated.

Especially in this divisive time, practicing empathy and courage is radical and I strongly believe that reading aids in that. Through Read Ahead's weekly, reading-based mentoring program, New York City youth build the social-emotional skills, love of reading, and confidence they need to thrive in school and beyond. 

In NYC public schools around 50% of students are struggling with one of the most foundational skills for success: reading. 

This is where Read Ahead comes in. We know that with the right support, every student can become a joyful, confident, and fluent reader. Read Ahead intervenes early, providing weekly sessions designed to help 1st - 5th graders develop literacy skills, a love of reading, confidence, and more. And we know Read Ahead works. Last year, 95% of parents and teachers said that their student(s) benefited from being in Read Ahead.

This is a mission I’m passionate about and need your help! Every donation—big or small—helps me reach my fundraising goal and directly impacts this important program.

Here's how you can help:

• Donate: Contribute whatever you can. No amount is too small!
• Spread the Word: Share my fundraising page with your friends, family, and social networks. Let’s spread awareness so we can raise more!

Thank you for your support. It means the world to me!