The Literacy Project of Eagle County recently hosted their 24th annual fundraising luncheon at the
4 Eagle Ranch in Wolcott. Over 300 people attended in support of the theme Hope Takes Flight.
LIV Sotheby’s International Realty (LIV SIR) proudly sponsors this event which supports the far-reaching programs of the Literacy Project of Eagle County.
Crissy Rumford, Vice President and Managing Broker of LIV SIR’s four Vail Valley offices, spoke about the deep responsibility to be good neighbors, good citizens, and generous stewards.
Rumford remarked, “In mountain towns like ours, we don’t just exist. We show up. We build relationships. We lend a hand. And we believe in lifting others — because we know that’s the only way we all rise together.”
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Featured author Eileen Garvin spoke about her newest book Crow Talk as well as her debut novel The Music of Bees, which was a national bestseller.
The Literacy Project’s programs range from Raising A Reader to Reading Buddies to Adult Literacy.
Melanie Dennis, global real estate advisor and Board Member with the Literacy Project, notes “Literacy is not just about putting books into homes where previously there weren’t any. It’s not just about giving English language skills to those who need them; it’s also about what happens when we do this. We create connections. We connect people to their community and communities to each other by bridging language and cultural gaps. This is empowering. Literacy translates itself into financial success, as well as emotional health and well being. If one can read well, then they can speak well, and with that, we can all Live well. And this I believe.”
Raising A Reader
Raising a Reader provides low-income families and preschool students across Eagle County with a set of award-winning children’s books packed into bright red bags. This creative “rotating book bag” creates a home-school connection that engages parents as participating partners in their child’s reading development.
The mission of Raising a Reader is to engage parents and caregivers in a routine of book sharing with their children from birth through age eight to foster healthy brain development, healthy relationships, a love of reading, and the literacy skills critical for school success.
Reading Buddies
The Literacy Project partners with the Eagle Valley Library District to pair teens with elementary-age children in a program designed to nurture a love of reading, build confidence, and foster community connections.
In Reading Buddies, middle school and high school students volunteer as “Big Buddies” to mentor “Little Buddies” in grades K-4. Big Buddies develop responsibility and leadership skills, while Little Buddies gain literacy skills and confidence. Together, they enjoy one-on-one reading time, reading-based games, group activities, and moments of reflection—all in a fun and supportive environment.
Adult Literacy Classes
Adult English speakers who read below an 8th grade level can get support through weekly classes to achieve practical goals such as getting a job, earning a driver’s license, or helping their children with homework.