Support Early Literacy + Connected Families in CO!

As a pediatrician, a parent of a 3.5-year- old and the Medical Director for Reach Out and Read Colorado, this work is very close to my heart. Every clinic day, the moment I get to hand a child a new book is the best part of my day. Kids light up when they see the books. Parents lean in. You can watch a family shift into a moment of connection before they even open the cover.  It reminds parents that reading together is not only fun, it is also an important part of raising a healthy, thriving child. 

At home, I see the power of this every night with my son, Asher. Some of our most cherished moments are curled up reading Brown Bear, Brown Bear, Little Blue Truck, or Corduroy.  I get to watch his imagination grow and enjoy those few peaceful minutes at the end of the day. These routines build connection, confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. 

When you give to Reach Out and Read Colorado, you help create moments like these for families across our state. This year, our program will support more than 330,000 well child visits.  We partner with pediatricians statewide to "prescribe" high quality, developmentally appropriate and language appropriate books along with guidance for parents and caregivers. For many families, these books become the start of a home library. They also become the start of new routines that build language skills, strengthen relationships, and prepare children for school. 

Reading together may seem simple, but the impact is powerful. It supports brain and language development, brings families closer, and helps set children up for success in school and in life.  When we help a child feel seen, safe, and supported from the very beginning, we open up endless possibilities for their future. 

Thank you for considering a gift to Reach Out and Read Colorado this Colorado Gives Day. Your support truly makes a difference for children and families throughout Colorado.