United Way of Trumbull Volunteers Inspire Young Readers

WARREN, Ohio – United Way of Trumbull County is celebrating Read Across America for two weeks in March. 

Volunteer readers are going to four Warren City PK-8 schools and reading four books in kindergarten, first, second and third grade classrooms.

“We are excited to be back in the schools with volunteers as part of our United ‘4’ Kids initiative to promote literacy and the joy of reading,” said Christine Cope, president and CEO of United Way of Trumbull County. “Reading helps our volunteers connect with the students and better understand our mission. It is always a fun and rewarding experience.”

Wendy Hartzell, chief academic officer of Warren City Schools, said this year’s United Way reading experience was extra special.

“For the entire month, Warren City Schools is dedicated to March Reading Raiders,” Hartzell said. “We are getting books into the hands of students to encourage the joy of reading, supporting and reinforcing good habits and helping them to build their own home libraries. Each school building is putting a unique spin on the March event by involving families and encouraging them to engage with their child through books.”

Mayor Doug Franklin is one of the volunteers. 

“It is exciting to see the enthusiasm of young scholars and how their world is expanded,” Franklin said.

Pictured at top: Front row from left, Katie Torba of Warren Junior Women’s League; Sarah Braun of Modern Methods Brewing Co.; Tammy Jorgensen of Premier Bank; Cheryl Bonini of the United Way of Trumbull County; Van Nelson of Trumbull Community Action Program; Lindsay McCoy of Warren Junior Women’s League; and Eddie Colbert, Warren safety director. Back row from left, Mayor Doug Franklin; Todd Johnson of Second Baptist Church; Constance Amstatz of Warren Junior Women’s League; and Christine Cope, president and CEO of United Way of Trumbull County.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.