Lubbock Area United Way recently hosted its eighth annual United We Read event, bringing together more than 500 volunteers to read the same book simultaneously in every second-grade classroom across 10 school districts and two charter schools in Lubbock County. Altogether, more than 3,600 students in 209 classrooms across the South Plains, including every Frenship ISD second grader, participated in this literacy event.
This community-wide event highlights the importance of literacy, volunteerism, and strong community partnerships. By dedicating just one hour to reading together, volunteers help spark imagination, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning among local students.
“United We Read is a perfect example of how impactful an engaged community can be in the lives of children in our schools,” said Keith Patrick, Frenship ISD Director of Strategic Initiatives and United Way Board Member. “Not only does this event reinforce the importance of literacy, but it also brings hundreds of volunteers onto campuses to see the great things our students and teachers are doing every single day.”
This year’s featured book, Little People, Big Dreams: Amelia Earhart by Maria Isabel Sánchez Vegara, encouraged students to dream boldly and reach for the skies, much like the aviator herself.
After reading the story together, students participated in a hands-on craft activity inspired by the book. With the help of community volunteers and Frenship staff, they created paper airplanes to symbolize how imagination and curiosity can help take them to new heights.
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.
“We are so thankful for United Way, the partners that make today possible, and of course, the volunteers who spent an hour building a memory that students will carry for a lifetime," said Patrick.
Each participating student received their own copy of the book, along with a reading guide to accompany the story, and United Way’s service guide that connects families to local community resources.
To learn more about Lubbock Area United Way and the United We Read program, CLICK HERE.