The Read Better Be Better program wouldn’t be possible without our wonderful volunteers. They believe in our mission so much that they selflessly donate their time and energy to help us achieve it. (BTW, that’s nothing short of worldwide reading domination.)
That’s why I recently chatted with RBBB volunteer Rachel Aja — she’s an invaluable part of our program and an extra-special human too.
Get to know Rachel by reading our interview below — and be sure to check out our volunteer opportunities while you’re at it.
1. Tell us about yourself.
I am a native Arizonan and a University of Arizona Wildcat. I have seven nieces and nephews whom I adore. In my free time, I love to cook and travel.
2. What first led you to volunteer for RBBB?
I love the mission of RBBB. The idea that helping a student improve and enhance their reading level in third grade can change the direction of their life and studies was astounding. Additionally, I loved the idea of connecting the third graders with eighth graders through the program.
3. Do you have a favorite moment or story from your experience with RBBB you’d like to share?
There are so many moments that I will always hold dear from my experience, but my favorite would be at my first graduation when one of the third graders came up to me and said, “I’ll see you when I’m in eighth grade and I come back to be a Big.”
4. What is your favorite book?
My favorite book is Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae.
A big thanks to Rachel for talking with me about the important work she’s doing with the RBBB program. Together we will tackle Arizona’s literacy crisis. (And read some great books along the way!)
Dr. Dave signing off!