Volunteer Spotlight: Meredith Baratz 2025 Words Alive Volunteer of the Year

BY: BRANDON CONDA, STORYTELLING INTERN

Meredith Baratz (right) pictured with Words Alive founder Leslye Lyons

In her Words Alive tenure, Meredith Baratz has served as a leader and strategist, demonstrating her love for books while actively volunteering her time. Meredith provided a consistent source of inspiration while standing at the organization’s core through a year marked by both significant achievements and obstacles.

While serving as Chair of the Board of Directors, Meredith guided Words Alive through a critical phase that included both its East Village headquarters transformation and the unplanned medical leave of its Executive Director. Her leadership style combined strategic thinking with a deep focus on people, which made sure community voices stayed prominent throughout the entire planning process.

Her influence extends well beyond board meetings and strategic planning sessions. Meredith dedicates her skills and time throughout the organization by evaluating program titles on the Page Turners team, refining literacy materials with the Curriculum Crew, and physically preparing learning kits for families. She demonstrates exceptional fundraising abilities, which resulted in the acquisition of more than 120 donations for the Champions for Youth campaign during the last four years.

Meredith’s connection to Words Alive is rooted in something personal: Her dedication to Words Alive stems from her enduring passion for books and her wish to pass on that delight to other people. She says that the organization's mission to connect children, teens, and families with the power of reading resonated with her.

She feels proud about the strategic groundwork being established for Words Alive’s future. Thanks to numerous leaders who served on Words Alive’s Board and leadership team, as well as staff members, the organization stands ready to extend its reach in new and dynamic ways. The creative energy and passion shown by this organization's staff make any observer proud of their daily work.

As Words Alive marks its 25th anniversary this year, Meredith points out the collective power that contributed to its success. Words Alive operates based on the essential work of approximately 800 - 1,000 dedicated volunteers who facilitate our operations and 80 partner organizations that ensure our programming reaches those most impacted by the literacy crisis.

Through high-level strategic planning and boots-on-the-ground volunteer service day after day,  Meredith exemplifies how effective leadership emerges from compassionate care and unwavering mission commitment. We are grateful to acknowledge Meredith Baratz as the 2025 Words Alive Volunteer of the Year.

Jessie James Olesco: Words Alive’s 2025 Youth Volunteer of the Year

BY: BRANDON CONDA STORYTELLING INTERN

When Jessie James Olesco first heard about the Words Alive internship through his high school’s workforce class, he saw it as a chance worth taking. Having been introduced to Words Alive through the Read Aloud Program in elementary school, Jessie recognized the powerful impact the organization had on underserved communities by fostering a love for reading.

 “When I saw Words Alive, something clicked. I remember they used to send boxes to my elementary school. I didn’t know a lot about it, but I thought—why not give it a shot?”

A familiar name combined with a leap of faith transformed into an experience that defined his senior year and altered his life perspective. As an 18-year-old student in his senior year of high school, Jessie received the 2025 Youth Volunteer of the Year recognition due to his dedication and growth which resulted in significant impact.

In the beginning, Jessie was nervous. “I thought I’d get fired,” he says with a laugh. “I kept apologizing whenever I made a mistake.” But instead of judgment, he was met with patience and encouragement. “Alex, my supervisor, told me something I’ll never forget—‘Don’t apologize if you didn’t know.’ That hit me hard. It reminded me that this is a learning experience, and it’s okay to make mistakes. That really stuck with me.”

Words Alive allowed Jessie to discover his ability to perform tasks such as data entry and inventory tracking while mastering Microsoft Excel programs. The essential lesson Jessie gained was mastering professional navigation and effective communication to become a reliable team member and leader among his colleagues.

“I wasn’t just volunteering—I was part of a team,” Jessie says. “It gave me confidence and helped me build a better version of myself.”

Beyond the technical skills, Jessie found deeper meaning in the work. “It’s about giving back to the community,” he says. “I was once one of those kids we’re helping—kids who just need a little inspiration to love reading, to be creative, to feel seen. That’s what motivates me now.”

His future goals became more defined thanks to this experience. Jessie intends to serve in the Air Force during his time at UC San Diego, which will help him develop both personal and professional skills. “My participation in Words Alive taught me that this experience enhances your employability,” Jessie remarks. “It sets you apart.”

He also credits part of his growth to the fellow students he shared the journey with. “Having friends like John and Jordan with me made a big difference. We leaned on each other, and learned from each other—it made it way less intimidating. If you’re thinking about volunteering or doing an internship like this, go for it—and do it with people you trust if you can. It makes it more meaningful.”

Jessie gives young people who are unsure about taking on new challenges straightforward advice: “Commit.” Expect to mess up. That’s part of it. When you show up with an open mindset, you will learn extensively about both your work and self-discovery.”

To Jessie, volunteering meant much more than just occupying his time. It was a turning point. At Words Alive, he discovered growth along with purpose and confidence. which will guide him during his nextphase at UCSD and beyond.

Andrew Hawkins: Words Alive’s 2025 Rookie of the Year

By Vikki Bowes-Mok, Words Alive Volunteer

Andrew Hawkins has supported five waves of the Family Literacy Program since beginning his volunteer service with Words Alive in 2024, and can also be found building Learning Kits at Wild Books, distributing program materials to program partners and school sites around San Diego, or representing Words Alive at community outreach events

Can you tell me about your involvement with Words Alive?

I joined Words Alive after moving to San Diego from Los Angeles, where I worked with a national nonprofit aimed at closing the opportunity gap between underinvested communities and their more affluent peers through the power of early literacy. I knew I wanted to continue this work in my new home of San Diego, and Words Alive offered volunteer opportunities that were impactful, community-oriented, and fun for volunteers and young readers.

What drew you to Words Alive?

Advancing quality early literacy initiatives has been a cornerstone of my work for the past 13 years. I’m invested in this work because I wholly believe in the transformational power of reading and its ability to change our life’s trajectory for the benefit of humankind and reverse many societal ills. I was fortunate enough to stumble upon an organization — Words Alive — that shared so many of my own values.

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

I’m most proud of my volunteer work with the Family Literacy Program, where I facilitate virtual weekly read-alouds with young children and their families and model engaging reading strategies that maximize the gifts we receive through reading. I treasure this shared reading space, and I’m always blown away by children’s own contributions to the story, from pointing out illustration details I missed, to sharing a thoughtful perspective I hadn’t considered, or offering insight on connections between our San Diego community and themes in the books we read. It’s also been wonderful to meet some of our young readers in person through community outreach events! Seeing their love for reading in person reminds me that the work we’re doing in session is creating positive reading habits that children will carry with them throughout life.

What are you reading right now?

I’m currently reading Black Boy, a memoir by Richard Wright. As a Black man, Black Boy has been insightful in understanding how American racial consciousness is formed throughout childhood, and how children are consistently receiving messages of status, power, desirability, and fear, even if they don’t possess the words to articulate those experiences and accompanying feelings.

Any book recommendations?

Solito, A Memoir, by Javier Zamoza, left a lasting impression on me. In Solito, Javier shares his story on migrating from El Salvador to the U.S. as a young child. I think it’s a must read, especially for communities like ours that share so many similarities with our neighbors across the border in Mexico. Stories like these are necessary to better understand the effects of migration on our neighbors and combat some of the disgusting, harmful falsehoods that are currently permeating American discourse.

2025 Engagement Volunteers of the Year: Steve & Gabrielle Heide

BY BRANDON CONDA, WORDS ALIVE STORYTELLING INTERN

Words Alive proudly acknowledges Steve and Gabrielle Heide as recipients of Words Alive’s 2025 Engagement Volunteers of the Year award! Through their friendly nature and professional skills, they have demonstrated a strong dedication to “Where the Wild Books Are” service days,  which has made this energetic pair essential to Words Alive.

Steve and Gabrielle began their journey with Words Alive in early 2024 following their retirement and relocation from Los Angeles to San Diego. While looking for meaningful ways to contribute to their new community, Gabrielle found Words Alive through HandsOn San Diego. The couple started participating in Wild Books events and immediately became captivated.

“We were looking for meaningful opportunities to volunteer our time and expertise in the area,” Steve and Gabrielle shared. “We first started volunteering at Wild Books events in early 2024.”

Gabrielle’s career as a credentialed public school art educator and Steve’s experience as a CPA and finance officer in both local government and nonprofits resulted in skill sets that matched perfectly with Words Alive’s mission. Their involvement quickly deepened. Gabrielle started creating accompanying art projects for Words Alive’s curriculum, and Steve became a member of Words Alive’s finance and audit committees.

“We’ve also participated in a few special events, which has been great too,” Steve and Gabrielle said. “It’s been nice to feel like we’re ‘boots on the ground’ volunteers assisting with Wild Books, but also using our professional backgrounds to support the organization in other ways.”

A Meaningful Commitment

What has kept Steve and Gabrielle so engaged?

“When we volunteer with Words Alive, whether with Wild Books or in some other way, we say, ‘we’re going to work,’” Steve and Gabrielle said. “We approach each opportunity as a serious (but fun) commitment. There’s a job to be done, and we like to think that our small volunteer part in Words Alive’s mission is making an impact—and that’s very rewarding.”

They also credit the incredible community of staff, board members, and fellow volunteers:
“The people we’ve met through Words Alive inspire us with their collective commitment to the mission. Being made to feel welcomed and appreciated by the Words Alive ‘family’ is rewarding in itself.”

Memorable Moments

After six months of volunteering, Steve and Gabrielle were invited to support a special corporate donation event at the San Diego Convention Center during a financial planners’ conference—an unexpected and memorable experience.

“The event took place on an outside patio, and Jason Mraz was doing an afternoon sound check for a concert at the nearby Rady Shell,” they laughed. “It felt like we had our own private concert at a Words Alive event!”

Why Literacy Matters

“So many of the families served by Words Alive wouldn’t have access to reading materials otherwise,” they explained. “Sometimes we’re packing as many as six titles per household, each with a related craft project. That has to be impacting these families in very positive and profound ways.”

Steve and Gabrielle are passionate about literacy because they know what’s at stake.

“When you’re young, if you don’t learn to read, you won’t be able to read to learn later in life. If you struggle with literacy, it can lead to lifelong struggles—even with things like applying for jobs or housing,” they said. “We hope our efforts can make some small difference in improving literacy for the youth in our community.”

Books & Recommendations

Currently, Steve is reading The Blue Zones by Dan Buettner, while Gabrielle is diving into Unwinding Anxiety by Judson Brewer. Both are lifelong learners and avid readers who understand the joy and empowerment that comes from a good book.

Thank you, Steve and Gabrielle, for your dedication, your energy, and the many ways you bring Words Alive’s mission to life! Your impact continues to inspire us all.

Words Alive Inspires Young Readers at KPBS’ Be My Neighbor Day

By Brandon Conda, Words Alive Storytelling Intern

On Saturday, April 5, 2025, KPBS hosted its third annual Be My Neighbor Day at San Diego State University, and Words Alive was proud to be part of the celebration!

Children learned about the importance of kindness and service while Words Alive created interactive literacy activities for families that embodied this message.

Visitors discovered the powerful literacy initiatives Words Alive is implementing throughout the San Diego community.

Andrew Hawkins and Susan Schock represented Words Alive, reaching out to families at the event to connect them with literacy resources and facilitate important discussions about home reading practices. The range of programming from Words Alive excited parents who were eager to learn about opportunities to participate and ways to incorporate these resources in their homes.

Andrew made a lasting impression because several children remembered him from their previous Family Literacy Program sessions, which showed how Words Alive builds enduring community relationships. 

As members of Words Alive’s Family Literacy Program, Andrew and Susan dedicate their time to reading with young children and their families while supporting the development of necessary literacy skills and self-confidence.

Visitors explored several sample books that are read in Words Alive’s programs while discovering Words Alive’s ongoing mission to inspire reading among people from every age group.

Children were also able to demonstrate their creative abilities at the Bookmark Station hosted by Words Alive’s Storytelling Intern Brandon Conda. Young people of all ages could create personalized bookmarks which served as interactive reading tools and reminders that books are for everyone to enjoy.

The Words Alive team thanks KPBS for the opportunity to interact with hundreds of families during Be My Neighbor Day. Families displayed enthusiasm for interacting with the Words Alive volunteers to ask about reading methods that could become part of their everyday routines. We appreciate everyone who visited to honor the strength of reading in building strong community ties!

2025 Read Aloud Program Volunteer of the Year: Debbie Boyd

By Brandon Conda, Words Alive Storytelling Intern

Words Alive is excited to honor Debbie Boyd as our Read Aloud Program Volunteer of the Year! Volunteers such as Debbie have been essential in making stories come alive for students at Title I elementary schools throughout San Diego County.

Debbie’s journey with Words Alive began in 2013 when she volunteered with Rolling Readers before the program merged with Words Alive to become our Read Aloud Program. A retired San Diego Sheriff’s Detective, she has dedicated her career to public service, with a special passion for prevention and education. She previously taught DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) for a decade, believing strongly in the power of early intervention to shape positive futures.

Now, let’s hear from Debbie about her experience with Words Alive!

How did you first get involved with Words Alive and the Read Aloud Program?
I had a friend who was already volunteering, and I was inspired to join. Teaching DARE as a deputy sheriff was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career, and I saw firsthand how education can shape lives. Volunteering with Words Alive was a natural extension of my passion for prevention and mentorship.

What inspired you to become a volunteer reader, and what keeps you coming back?
The smiles and hugs from the kids make it all worthwhile! I know that promoting literacy helps reduce crime, and as someone who spent years in law enforcement, that’s incredibly important to me. Every time I see a student’s excitement about a book, I know I’m making a difference.

Is there a particular moment or student interaction that stands out to you?
Absolutely. The morning after the mass shooting in Las Vegas, a 4th-grade student I had read to two years earlier approached me at recess. He remembered me and recited a gun safety lesson I had taught him through the Eddie Eagle Gun Safety Program: “Stop, Don’t Touch, Leave the Area, Tell an Adult.” It warmed my heart to know he had retained that lesson and that it had stuck with him for years. Preventing gun violence has always been important to me, and this moment reinforced how vital early education is.

How do you think the Read Aloud Program makes a difference in children’s lives?
Literacy is a powerful tool for crime prevention and personal growth. Being able to provide children with books fosters a love of reading that can change the trajectory of their lives. Reading opens doors, and I’m grateful to be a part of that journey for so many students.

As you transition out of in-person volunteering, what do you hope your legacy will be with Words Alive?
I have always aimed to inspire my students. Every year, I read One Giant Leap about Neil Armstrong and Apollo 11, as well as books about Dr. Ellen Ochoa, the first Latina in space. Since most of my students were Hispanic, I wanted them to see role models who looked like them and know they could achieve anything. I also made reading fun by wearing costumes to match the books I read—whether it was an astronaut suit, a judge’s robe for Sonia Sotomayor: A Judge Grows in the Bronx, or a superhero outfit for Barack Obama’s Of Thee I Sing. I hope my students will always remember that reading is an adventure.

Books & Recommendations

What book are you currently reading?
I loved Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus and Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir.

Do you have any book recommendations you’d like to share?
One of my all-time favorites is "Sonia Sotomayor: A Judge Grows in the Bronx" by Jonah Winter. It’s an inspiring story that I loved sharing with my students.

As Debbie moves to Minnesota, she hopes to find another fulfilling volunteer opportunity like Words Alive. She reflects on her time with the program with immense gratitude, noting that sometimes, she felt she got more out of volunteering than the students did. Debbie’s impact on the children she read to, and the Words Alive community as a whole, will be remembered for years to come.

Thank you, Debbie, for your years of service and dedication to fostering a love of reading in young minds!

Words Alive Delivers 2,372 Books to San Diego Elementary Students

By Brandon Conda, Words Alive Storytelling Intern

In March 2025, Words Alive successfully delivered books to over 2,300 students located in 23 Title I elementary schools throughout San Diego County. Our Read Aloud Program’s spring book giveaway enhanced reading skills and habits while exposing young readers to meaningful and diverse stories. More than 20 volunteers played an essential role by delivering books and learning kits to classrooms across the region, from Escondido to National City. A total of 2,580 books and learning kits reached their destination, with two additional copies included in each box to guarantee both classrooms and libraries received these essential materials.

The story Wepa by J. de la Vega served as the book choice for this initiative because its bilingual English-Spanish narrative and depiction of ADHD reflects the lived experiences of many young San Diegans. The choice to showcase Wepa stemmed from its strong ties to local community members and its ability to connect deeply with students' personal experiences. Wepa narrates a child's journey to understanding life through ADHD and highlights both obstacles and successes in accepting distinct personal qualities. The book’s themes matched Words Alive’s dedication to providing children with diverse and inclusive stories.

Students also received learning kits with craft materials so they could produce art projects to bring themes of the book alive. The kits contained cardboard paper, paint, googly eyes, and forks to produce various textures and patterns of paint. The practical activity empowered students to engage more deeply with the book while giving them the chance to be creative and connect with the story's message.

Words Alive provides books and activities for families with the objective of promoting literacy beyond the classroom and establishing sustainable community impact. Words Alive volunteers introduced the class to the book through an engaging, interactive read-aloud session and gifted each child their own copy of the book paired with a tie-in learning kit. The joyful learning experiences continued at home when children shared their art with their families, read the book with their younger relatives, and delved into the learning kit’s extension activities with their families. 

The choice of Wepa arose from a collaboration with the book’s art director, scheduled to speak at Valencia Park Elementary in April. By helping students connect with the real people who create their stories, we expand their learning about the literary world while encouraging them to envision themselves as story creators.

Words Alive can only reach 5,000 children, teens, and families each year with the support of our amazing team of volunteers. We are incredibly grateful to all the volunteers who stepped up to deliver new books and learning resources to our partner schools in San Diego’s historically disinvested neighborhoods. Literacy - and delivering thousands of books per year - is truly a team effort!

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.