Early Learning Coalition of SWFL Seeks "Literacy Buddies" During National Literacy Month

FORT MYERS, Fla. - Aug. 31, 2015 - PRLog -- September is National Literacy Month, and the Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida (ELC) is seeking volunteers for their 2015-2016 Literacy Buddies Program. Take a small step to make a big difference by helping a Southwest Florida child learn to read and write!

Volunteers, called Literacy Buddies, agree to receive letters and book requests from a 3 or 4 year old in a child care center served by the Coalition. The Buddy will respond by sending the child a letter and a book. These exchanges take place three times throughout the school year.

The Literacy Buddy Program is now in its seventh year. It provides children with high-quality books to start home libraries. For some of the children, this program provides a chance to have books they can call their own. Literacy Buddies help our youngest citizens acquire the tools they need to develop an early love of learning.

Those who have taken part in the Literacy Buddy Program are encouraged to continue. Volunteers can update their information via the Literacy Buddy Update survey.

For more information on the Literacy Buddy Program initiative or to download an application, please visit our Facebook page, facebook.com/ELCofSWFL or website, http://elcofswfl.org/downloads-literacy_buddy_project.php. Questions can be directed via email to literacybuddies@ELCofSWFL.org.

The Early Learning Coalition of Southwest Florida exists to enhance the quality of children's lives by providing low-income families, early childhood educators, caregivers and community partners in Collier, Glades, Hendry and Lee Counties, with opportunities to positively impact the future. For details on our many services or to donate, please visit ELCofSWFL.org or call (239) 935-6194.