The Role Model Reading Program at 2nd & 7 is dedicated to promoting literacy by giving free books to children and strongly encouraging young athletes to become leaders in their community. So far this school year, the program is active in 97 counties in 18 different states and has distributed more than 29,000 Hog Mollies Books. Approximately 25,000 second grade students participate in this program, and over 4,000 student athletes will serve as volunteers. In addition, the Role Model Reading Program has scheduled more than 70 visits in Central Ohio, connecting young readers with positive role models.
The Columbus Kids Book Bank is another crucial part of 2nd & 7’s mission. Through the Columbus Role Model Reading Program visits, 2nd & 7 has been able to distribute over 1,800 book bank books in addition to our Hog Mollies books. Columbus Kids' Book Bank books have also reached children through monthly giveaways, online orders, and community events. Roughly 15,000 books have been distributed at monthly giveaways, 8,000 books given through online orders, and 5,500 books handed out at community events. So far this school year, over 25,000 new and gently used books have been collected from book drives and book donations. The Columbus Book Bank helps make reading more accessible and strongly encourages children to be leaders and build positive ready habits. Overall, these two programs support 2nd & 7’s mission of promoting literacy and inspiring children to read through positive role models.
Written by: Sha'Niya Ashley
Cristo Rey High School Work Study Student