When Ashley first learned about the “amazing program at Booker T.,” she thought that creating a weekly reading program for preschool children “would be fun.” For the past seven years, Ashley’s role as volunteer has gone well beyond her weekly reading sessions. She gives books to each child “so they end up having their own library at home…and they get to know that books are fun and books are a wonderful way to learn,” she says. Ashley also sponsors trips for the children like a recent visit to New Jersey where they rode on a steam locomotive and had a picnic. Afterwards, she created souvenir photo albums for each child.

A professional voiceover announcer, with an undergraduate degree in theater from Smith and an MBA from Harvard, Ashley radiates enthusiasm and affection as she describes the time she spends with the children. “They are adorable and they are so excited to be learning things…they are very engaging, very friendly, and they enjoy the things you do. It’s a fun part of my week.” Ashley is especially pleased that her 12-year-old daughter Megan is also volunteering in the after-school program.

On behalf of our children and staff, thank you, Ashley and Megan, for your dedication and generosity, for teaching us to love books, and for being such a fun part of our week!