Ralph Inzunza Visits Monarch School, Connecting with Students Through Border Citizen

At Monarch School in downtown San Diego, high school students participating in Words Alive’s Adolescent Book Group gathered in their classroom in early February 2025 to meet Ralph Inzunza, author of Border Citizen.

“I’m a little bit on both sides,” Inzunza told the students, speaking to the complexities of living between cultures. Inzunza, switching seamlessly between English and Spanish, shared his background and the inspiration behind his novel.  

The students and Words Alive volunteers shared with Inzunza that they had been reading Border Citizen aloud, each student taking on different characters to bring the story to life in their classroom. Inzunza signed the students’ books and spoke of his experiences as an activist and author.  

In addition to their rich discussion, Inzunza introduced students to kendama and balero, traditional skill toys that turned the room into a competition. Laughter and cheers filled the space as students took turns trying to master the tricky moves. The playful atmosphere opened the door for meaningful conversation as Inzunza asked about the students’ experiences, weaving in discussions about binational life and what it means to belong. 

Above all, Inzunza wanted them to take away two things: the importance of getting involved in your community and why stepping up to lead matters.  

Each year, Words Alive creates opportunities for the learners in our programs to connect with the authors and illustrators behind stories that reflect the lived experiences of our participants. Visits like these create space for young people to see themselves in literature, to hear from authors who understand their world, and to be reminded that their voices, and their futures, are worth fighting for.

2024-25 Champions for Youth Campaign Raises $137,000+ for Words Alive

By Vikki Bowes-Mok, Words Alive Volunteer

Thanks to the hard work of staff and volunteers, the dedication of corporate partners, and the generosity of the Words Alive community, the 2024-25 Champions for Youth campaign ultimately raised $137,898 — all in support of Words Alive’s mission to inspire lifelong learning through reading and ensure every child has access to the tools for success. Excitingly, Words Alive tied for first place in securing bonus funds and proudly took first place for the number of unique donors. 

Champions for Youth is a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign, running from December 3 to January 26, hosted by The Century Club and Farmers Insurance. Through peer-to-peer fundraising, Words Alive’s supporters mobilize their immediate social circles, such as friends, family, and co-workers, to make an impact.

The campaign kicked off with impressive success on Giving Tuesday, marking the first official day of the campaign. On that day alone, Words Alive raised $18,290 — more than four times the amount raised in 2023 ($4,135). This year’s launch also saw a significant rise in donor participation, with 147 donors compared to 44 in 2023.

“Roughly half of 3rd graders in San Diego County are not reading at grade level, and the gap is even wider for students of color. Words Alive is helping close that gap and making a real difference in our community,” said Steve and Gabrielle Heide. “The built-in matching incentives during the Champions for Youth campaign motivated us even more to contribute to this important cause.”

The campaign’s momentum continued well beyond Giving Tuesday, as fundraising efforts ramped up throughout the season. 

“Champions for Youth is not only Words Alive’s biggest fundraising campaign of the year, but it’s our opportunity to connect with community members about the importance of literacy, reading, and book access, and to invite them to join us in supporting young readers across San Diego,” said Robyn Grand, Community Engagement Manager at Words Alive, noting that 2025 will be the last year Words Alive can participate in the campaign. “One of my favorite things about Words Alive is how accessible it is to get involved, whether it’s through volunteering or supporting a peer-to-peer campaign.”

Twenty individuals created fundraising pages, bringing in 527 donors who jointly raised $65,108. This success made Words Alive eligible for the $235,000 Farmers Cares Bonus Pool, securing an additional $72,000 in bonus funds to further support their mission. Matching funds from Farmers Insurance, the S. Bernstein Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation, and Christopher Weil & Company, Inc. further amplified the campaign's impact.

“Giving back to my community in a way that changes the lives of youth is a true honor,” said Bijan Nowroozian, Words Alive board member. “I’m incredibly grateful to not only make an impact but also be part of a greater campaign alongside like-minded individuals who are making a difference. Thank you Champions for Youth and Words Alive for all that you do!”

Meet Our New Storytelling Intern, Brandon Conda

We’re excited to welcome Brandon Conda as our new Storytelling Intern at Words Alive! 

Brandon is a sophomore at San Diego State University, majoring in journalism and media studies with a minor in marketing. His passion for storytelling and content creation began at a young age when he started capturing moments through creative projects. In high school, he expanded on this passion by working on media projects that brought stories to life in unique and engaging ways. 

Now in college, Brandon is eager to further develop his skills by creating meaningful content that informs, inspires, and connects with others. Whether through writing, video editing, or digital media, he loves blending creativity with storytelling to make an impact. With a strong interest in sports media, he understands how powerful stories can bring people and communities together. 

Outside of media, Brandon enjoys watching sports—especially baseball and football—along with movies and music. He’s also committed to improving his physical and mental well-being. Brandon is excited to join the Words Alive team, contribute his creativity, and help share impactful stories that promote literacy, education, and empowerment! 

Brandon’s passion for storytelling is driven by his love for media and personal growth. He believes that storytelling has the power to inspire, educate, and create meaningful change. His dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices and promoting literacy comes from his strong belief in education’s impact on individuals and communities. Through his work at Words Alive, he hopes to use storytelling to connect, inform, and empower others. Now here are a few words from Brandon! 

How did you discover Words Alive? What drew you to interning here? 

I discovered Words Alive through a posting that caught my eye in one of my San Diego State University classes. I’ve always been passionate about storytelling, especially through editing and media, and the opportunity to be part of an organization that works to improve literacy and empower people through education was a perfect fit. I believe that reading and storytelling have the power to change lives, and I wanted to be part of that mission. 

What book or story has had a big impact on you? Do you have a favorite quote? 

One book that had a big impact on me is The Closer by Mariano Rivera. It’s a powerful story about resilience, perseverance, and excellence, and it really speaks to my own drive to succeed in the things I’m passionate about. A favorite quote from it is: “You can always get better.” It’s a reminder that growth is a continual process. 

What do you hope to gain from being a storytelling intern? 

I hope to gain valuable experience working with the amazing Words Alive staff and to further develop my writing skills. I’m excited to learn more about how storytelling can empower others and help amplify voices in a meaningful way. 

Celebrating a Life of Literacy: Remembering Margie Blitz

After a lifetime of extraordinary service and creating change in communities across the country, especially San Diego, Marjorie (Margie) Blitz passed away peacefully in December 2024.

Margie served on the Words Alive Board of Directors from 2001 – 2010, including an impactful term as Words Alive Board Chair that saw incredible growth in the reach of our programs.  Her genuine enthusiasm for Words Alive inspired numerous volunteers and donors to become involved, many of whom are still part of the Words Alive community today. 

A longtime volunteer with Words Alive’s youngest readers, Margie inspired a love of reading in countless preschool-aged children. Margie was instrumental in the creation of the organization’s first early literacy program almost 25 years ago and we truly could not be where we are today without her leadership and dedication.

Read more about Margie’s remarkable life and legacy here.

Wrapping Up the Season with Words Alive: Cookies, Cocoa, and Crafts 2024

by Genielysse reyes, Words alive volunteer coordinator

Volunteers connecting with one another as they assemble learning kits

On December 11th, I had the pleasure of coordinating Words Alive’s annual “Cookies, Cocoa, and Crafts” service party. Pitched as a “Where the Wild Books Are” service event with a festive overlay, “Cookies, Cocoa, and Crafts 2024” ultimately transformed into a bright and bookish celebration.

The service party began at 10:30am, and 45 volunteers gathered around our office front for a lovely welcoming speech by our executive director, Rachael, and our awesome staff. Afterward, the party officially started with the opening of six different service stations.

Volunteers writing letters at our Words of Inspiration station

Three stations allowed volunteers to assemble learning kits for three heartwarming titles: The I Love You Book by Todd Parr, Wepa by J de la Vega, and A Ball for Daisy by Chris Raschka. These kits will be directly distributed to children and families all over San Diego County.

Two other stations let volunteers exercise their creative voices. Our Words of Inspiration station gave volunteers the supplies needed to write encouraging letters to young readers, as well as thank you letters to fellow volunteers. A special holiday-inspired station asked volunteers share the names of their favorite books on paper ornaments, which were then hung on the Words Alive rainbow tree.

The Words Alive rainbow tree adorned with “Favorite Book” ornaments

A new station we added was dedicated to our Page Turners Program. A quieter space on the couches of our mezzanine, volunteers read titles from our book catalogue and reviewed them in real time, helping us determine which titles will be featured in future programming.

And of course, we had a station dedicated to the titular cookies and cocoa. The delicious cookies were donated by Jimbo’s and Blackmarket Bakery, while the cocoa was donated by my mom, Coco (what a fun coincidence, right?). She even included fun peppermint and marshmallow stirrers.

Cookies generously donated by Jimbo’s

For two hours, the office came alive with laughter, teamwork, music, and community. We book ended the party with a picture-perfect group photo plus a speed-reading competition between 3 stellar staff and board members. Our space erupted in applause, thus concluding an event that is now considered a Words Alive holiday tradition.

More cookies generously donated by Blackmarket Bakery

A huge thank you to Jimbo’s, Blackmarket Bakery, and Coco Reyes for adding so much sweetness to this event.

And thank you to all our volunteers who put in so much work and love into these reading resources, letters, ornaments, and book reviews. Because of you, Words Alive continues to thrive, and the joy of reading continues to grow, throughout this holiday season and beyond.

If you’d like to join our amazing community of readers and volunteers this upcoming new year, you can now sign up for our next Wild Book service events here. If you also would like to learn more about how to be more involved with Words Alive through our in-person or virtual volunteer roles, click here or email us at [email protected]. We are so excited to turn the page and begin the 2025 chapter with you!

The amazing volunteers and staff who made “Cookies, Cocoa, and Crafts” a fun and festive success

Words Alive's 20th Annual Author Event and Fundraiser Draws 250 Attendees

On October 30, 2024, Words Alive welcomed best-selling author Paula Hawkins to our signature Author Event & Fundraiser. Hosted at San Diego’s Julep event venue, the fundraiser ultimately brought in several thousand dollars to support Words Alive’s mission of connecting children, teens, and families with the power of reading. 250 people attended the evening’s festivities, including many of the original Words Alive volunteers and donors.

Words Alive Founder Leslye Lyons with Congressman Scott Peters

In celebration of Words Alive’s 25th anniversary, Congressman Scott Peters presented an official proclamation recognizing a quarter-century of life-changing literacy work. Accepting the proclamation on Words Alive’s behalf was founder Leslye Lyons, who expressed deep gratitude for the honor as well as the community who has powered the organization over the past 25 years.

KPBS Arts Reporter Julia Dixon Evans facilitated the evening’s conversation with Paula Hawkins, author of the best-selling book The Girl on the Train. Paula discussed her novel The Blue Hour, released just the day before the event and already named November’s Good Morning America Book Club pick. Paula discussed the complex characters she finds so interesting to explore in her novels, as well as the use of a story’s setting as its own character. She touched on her in-depth research process for her books, delving into everything from the creation of fine art to the rugged Scottish landscape.

Words Alive’s 2024 Author Event & Fundraiser truly demonstrated the power of a good book to bring people together. Thank you to all those who joined the festivities and contributed to Words Alive’s life-changing literacy work. 100% of the event’s proceeds go directly to inspiring a love of reading in the 5,000 youth and families Words Alive reaches each year.

To Be a Words Alive Volunteer: A Reflection from a New Volunteer Coordinator

By Genielysse Reyes, Words Alive Volunteer Coordinator

I became a frequent volunteer over ten years ago, during my undergraduate career. There were many spaces in which I volunteered, spaces that held their own values, vibes, and importance. Downtown festivals drew communities closer and celebrated bouts of history and culture. Street cleanups expanded perspectives and empathy. Rallies ignited calls to action.

Since joining the Words Alive team two months ago, I have conversed with many of our stellar volunteers, who have all made a lasting mark on the organization. Through these conversations, I learned more about the volunteer space Words Alive had created. Some volunteers noted that they came to Words Alive because it reminded them of their teacher days. Others shared that it was because they had a love for reading and writing. And some said that they were simply looking for ways to help.

As these volunteers continued their journey with Words Alive, dedicating hours to read to kids, facilitate student book groups, assemble program materials at our office, and deliver books and activities to San Diego families, they all took something away, too. Volunteers stated that through Words Alive, they found new, diverse books to read. They made so many human connections. They felt more self-confident. They felt a sense of belonging.

I learned that the Words Alive volunteer space was one that combined the kinds of spaces I knew before: united by the call to action to advocate the power of reading, and grounded by a strong sense of community and open-mindedness.

To be a Words Alive volunteer is, in a way, to be a reader: a person who visits a world and listens to it, expanding perspective and agency, and feeling changed by the end. I thank the Words Alive volunteers for finding our space and changing it for the better, too.

Staying on theme, I’d like to invite you to my own call to action. We have an abundance of volunteer roles available, including our Read Aloud Program and our graphic novel curriculum team. If you would like to join the Words Alive volunteer community and make a direct difference in the reading journeys of young people all throughout San Diego, click here or email us at [email protected]. Once you visit the world of Words Alive, I have an inkling you’d love to stay.  

25 Years of Words Alive: A Conversation with Kay Gurtin

BY VIKKI BOWES-MOK, WORDS ALIVE VOLUNTEER

To celebrate Words Alive’s 25th anniversary, we are speaking with a few of the remarkable people who have helped write our story over the last quarter century. 

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Kay (second from left) at a Words Alive “Spark a Love of Reading” event 

Kay Gurtin has touched all aspects of Words Alive, from volunteering to serving on the board. She was site chair at Lindsay School (a school for pregnant and parenting teens), launched the Choice and Youth Development Center programs for the Adolescent Book Group (ABG) and served on the Board of Directors from 2011 - 2019, including serving on the search committee for Words Alive’s incredible Executive Director, Rachael Orose!

Now, a few words from Kay!

What drew you to Words Alive?

I am a voracious reader and have been in book clubs for years. Plus, I had been trained in the University of Chicago Great Books program. The opportunity to promote literacy and volunteer with students was a win-win. What I didn't realize when I signed up was the special friendships I would make as I had just moved to San Diego when I joined Words Alive. Fortunately, I have maintained those interesting and diverse relationships for 20 years!

Looking back at your work with Words Alive, what makes you proud today?

Kay with teacher Ben White

I am most proud of working for more than a decade with ABG teacher Ben White, who was a teacher for 20 years in the Juvenile Court and Community Schools. I appreciated the respect and connections we developed with the students who were described as “last chance.” In Ben’s school, I encouraged and mentored a young man who had been involved in a gang, been shot, and incarcerated. I was excited to see him earn a Words Alive Westreich Scholarship and become the first in his family to attend community college. I also loved introducing Salman Rushdie at a Words Alive Author’s Luncheon. 

Is there anything you wish more people knew about Words Alive?

What an incredible pivot Words Alive made during the COVID-19 crisis, including attracting new volunteers and students across the world to engage with students of all ages on social media platforms. It was especially impressive since many nonprofits shut down during this period.

How do you envision the next chapter of Words Alive’s story?

I think Words Alive will continue to spread its wings in the literacy sector in San Diego and beyond and potentially monetize their curriculum and programs.

What are you reading right now?
The Life Impossible by Matt Haig

25 Years of Words Alive: A Conversation with Bijan Nowroozian

BY VIKKI BOWES-MOK, WORDS ALIVE VOLUNTEER

To celebrate Words Alive’s 25th anniversary, we are speaking with a few of the remarkable people who have helped write our story over the last quarter century. 

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Bijan Nowroozian has been part of many different chapters at Words Alive. From volunteering with the Adolescent Book Group (ABG) program and Words Alive Westreich Scholarship (WAWS) program to serving on the Board of Directors and taking on additional projects at Words Alive whenever needed. He was the recipient of the Words Alive 2023 Westreich Scholarship Service and Mentorship Award. After working in libraries for 18 years, mostly at the San Diego Public Library, he was the senior librarian of the Parkland Spanaway Pierce County Library in Tacoma, Washington. In summer 2024, he moved to Colorado Springs, CO where he now cares for his newborn son Cyrus, with his partner, Sarah.

Now, a few words from Bijan!

What drew you to Words Alive?

I wanted to use the skills I learned while pursuing my English degree to give back to the community. When I learned about Words Alive and its mission statement, I knew this was the organization for me.

What speaks to you about Words Alive’s mission?

I love that Words Alive is committed to not only promoting literacy but also truly creating a love for reading among youth—especially in underserved communities. I grew up in an underserved community and know just how hard it can be to get things like new books. The goals that Words Alive is committed to fill me with such pride that I’m happy to be a part of them.

What part(s) of your work with Words Alive are you most proud of today?

That’s tough but if I had to narrow it down, I’m really proud of the work I did in the Adolescent Book Group program, as I made some amazing connections with students whose life stories, opinions, and creativity changed me for the better. The work done with the Westreich Scholarship program led to numerous students receiving vital financial support and mentorship. I’m so proud to have seen so many of those students graduate with their college degrees while being part of that program. For all scholars of the WAWS program, I’m thankful to have been part of your amazing journeys.

How do you envision the next chapter of Words Alive’s story?

I’m really excited to see all of the amazing things that are planned for 2025 with Words Alive! There’s so many brilliant and hard-working people working at Words Alive who have some truly creative and fun ideas. Once they get the ball rolling on what’s next, I’ll do all I can to support them. ;)

As for the meta vision, I see Words Alive becoming more and more influential in helping underserved families in the San Diego area. The more we become part of the community, the more we’re known and sought after for resources, which we’ll be happy to provide.

Is there anything you wish more people knew about Words Alive’s history or current work?

I wish people understood that Words Alive is mostly driven through volunteer work and that the Words Alive volunteers are so passionate and committed to the mission. Whether it’s during a virtual program, planning meeting, or in-person prep session, everyone brings amazing vibes and pure joy to what they’re doing. Whenever I do any team-based volunteer work with Words Alive, I smile from ear to ear.

What is a book that made a significant impact on your life?

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. This book made me think of books and stories in a more analytical way from a young age.

What are you reading right now? I’m making my way through the Bobiverse series by Dennis E. Taylor. I’m reading book 4: Heaven’s River. If you enjoy lighthearted comedic sci-fi, give the series a try. :)

25 Years of Words Alive: A Conversation with Vichittra Chaleune

by vikki bowes-mok, words alive volunteer

To celebrate Words Alive’s 25th anniversary, we are speaking with a few of the remarkable people who have helped write our story over the last quarter century. 

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Vichittra “Vee” Chalenue is Words Alive’s longest-serving staff member! She started in 2015 and is now Associate Program Director and Read Aloud Program Manager. Her Words Alive experience actually began years before joining the team, as Vee was part of Words Alive’s Read Aloud Program when she was in elementary school; talk about full circle! When she started first grade, she would get nervous about reading - until her reading role model, Ms. Stephanie, arrived as a Words Alive volunteer and showed her how fun reading could be.

Now, a few words from Vee!

Did your experience as a child influence your decision to join the Words Alive team as an adult?

Yes! I didn’t know it at the time but when I first started as a part-time Program Coordinator, part of my assignment was to read aloud to classes. As I prepared for my first session, I grabbed a picture book that I kept with me all these years and upon opening the cover, I noticed the sticker from my reading role model and that’s how I realized that Words Alive was in my first grade class. The book is about giving back to my community and making a positive impact in my world. That’s definitely helped shape my career path.

Is there anything you wish more people knew about Words Alive’s history or current work?

I think similar to my personal experience I’d want people to know that when they get involved with Words Alive, whether it’s donating time (as a reader or packing kits or working directly with our kids and families), donating talent (writing our curriculum, being active on committees, elevating our processes), or donating treasure, that they’re making a huge impact that is life changing.

How do you envision the next chapter of Words Alive’s story?

I’d love to see Words Alive reach every school and community throughout San Diego and beyond. It would be incredible if Words Alive could expand out of San Diego in the next decade.

What are you reading right now?

My wife and I have been on a banned book reading challenge with our 21 month old babies, so we’ve been reading everything from Julián is a Mermaid by Jessica Love and Red: A Crayon’s Story by Michael Hall to This Day in June by Gayle E. Pitman to Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall.