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Call to Action

The Weston Reading ClubThe annual Mayor's Grand River Cleanup

THE WESTON READING CLUB was inspired by Mayor George Heartwell's 'State of the City' address on January 28th 2012. The focus of his speech was about children's literacy, education and overall well-being, making specific reference to the children of Grand Rapids and the fact that "each one of us has a role - no, an obligation - to these children." Motivated by this call to action, Jennifer Jansma (USA Marketing Manager, Kuaka New Zealand) decided to begin a children's reading club.

In the apartment buildings of 21 & 50 Weston there are approximately 39 children between the ages of 1 month - 15 years of age. Not all of these little ones have parents who are literate, let alone have jobs. Most of the residents lack motivation or any sort of interest and this has a negative and rippling effect on the children. Jennifer was able to secure over 100 children’s book donations from Schulers books, to begin the Weston Reading Club.

The first event was held on March 4th 2012. Employees from the LE GRAVE GR FIRE DEPT came in uniform to read the children a story. To date, she can only boast an attendance of between 3 - 6 children and it will be sometime before solid attendance is achieved. As much as they love the stories, convincing the parents is the toughest part.

Your call to action:

Jennifer is looking for 'celebrity readers' on Sundays for the WESTON READING CLUB. The club can always use more book donations for the club as well. If you are able to help this cause in any capacity, please contact Jennifer Jansma (c: (616) 617 1439; e: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ).