By: Richard L. Smith
In a display of community spirit and the power of reading, RLS Media and the Essex Prosecutor’s Office were among a dozen esteemed participants to take part in a special Celebrity Read event at Florence Avenue Elementary School in Irvington Township.
The event, held on the morning of Wednesday, February 28, saw a diverse group of volunteers, including local dignitaries, educators, and community members, gather to share stories and inspire the young minds of Irvington.
The rainy morning began with Principal Frantz Meronvil warmly welcoming the guests and expressing his gratitude for their commitment to fostering a love of reading among the students.
Ms. Darlene Reeves, the school's Parent Coordinator, played a pivotal role in organizing the event, inviting parents and community members to volunteer their time and talents to read to the scholars.
The day was made even more special with the assistance of Dr. October Hudley, the Library Media Specialist, who helped volunteers select grade-level appropriate books.
More than 40 volunteers participated, enjoying the opportunity to read to the children and engage in meaningful discussions about the stories.
Celebrity Read, a brainchild of the United Way of Essex and West Hudson, has been a beacon of hope and inspiration since its inception in 1991.
The initiative aims to encourage elementary school children to embrace reading, dream big, and set and achieve their goals.
By highlighting the achievements of influential people of color, the program teaches students about the impact of education and the enduring power of knowledge.
Among the volunteers were notable figures such as the Chief of Staff to Honorable Mayor Tony Vauss, members of the Irvington Public Safety Department, retired educators, fraternity members from Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.bankers, municipal government employees, and many others who shared their life experiences and emphasized the transformative power of reading.
The event not only celebrated the rich heritage and contributions of African Americans but also expanded to honor individuals from other minority backgrounds, enriching the students' understanding of diversity and success.
The overwhelmingly positive feedback from volunteers and participants alike reflects the event's success in creating a nurturing and engaging environment for the scholars of Irvington.
With plans already underway to return next year, the Celebrity Read event promises to continue its legacy of empowering young readers and uniting the community in support of education and literacy.