When I was younger, I was diagnosed with dyslexia, which is a learning disability that affects 1 in 5 children. It diminished my self-esteem, my confidence, it made me think Was I different? Was something wrong with me? I became filled with anxiety, even embarrassment, entering the classroom.
One of the things that made me love reading as much as I do now is audiobooks. Hearing for a Change is an organization that empowers struggling readers by using auditory book systems to help build their vocabulary, comprehension, and overall love for books.
The success of my organization has really been built on that one-on-one connection that we grow between our struggling reader and our high school hero. Our volunteers ask questions, they make sure the books are engaging, and they always love meeting with the kids. They’re passionate, they’re excited, and we tell them, hey, you’re not alone. There are other kids like you. I’m like you.
By the end of the year, I’ve seen them grow that confidence and that love for reading. Audiobooks have opened a new chapter to have their imaginations run wild.