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.

25 Years of Words Alive: A Conversation with Meredith Baratz

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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Meredith Baratz is the current chair of Words Alive’s Board of Directors. She also volunteers with Page Turners to read and review books being considered for Words Alive’s programs, as well as on the Curriculum Crew to create literacy materials for volunteers and families. She often volunteers in the office to prepare learning kits and help with other tasks.

Now, a few words from Meredith!

What drew you to Words Alive?

The mission of the organization — connecting children, teens and families to the power of reading — spoke to me. I have loved diving into a good book since I was a child and continue to be excited about helping create that connection for others.

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

Thanks to the leadership of people who have served on Words Alive’s Board, on its leadership team and on staff, the organization is poised today to expand its impact in some exciting ways. I’m delighted to be helping today’s leadership team frame a strategic plan that will help us advance and accelerate opportunities for the community we serve. It would be impossible to not be proud of the creative, energetic and passionate staff that guides the work of this organization every day.

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

Yes! This year, Words Alive celebrates its 25th anniversary — after starting around the dining room table of Founder Leslye Lyons — serving approximately 5,000 children and families in San Diego every year, delivering a measurable impact on children’s reading attitudes and behavior. Thanks to the generosity of former Board Chair Karen Silberman and her husband, Jeff, the organization has a physical presence in San Diego’s East Village, and we are working hard to create a gathering place for people who care about literacy.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Words Alive absolutely could not do what it does without the power of the dedicated volunteers — roughly 1,000 in total — who drive our operations, and the 80 or so partner organizations who deliver programming. Volunteers help us do everything from select books for our curriculum, develop curriculum guides, create and deliver books and learning kits to classrooms, manage inventory, read aloud in classrooms, guide book group discussions with teens, and so much more.

What are you reading right now?

I just finished Properties of Thirst by Marianne Wiggins. It’s a really good read, particularly for Californians.

25 Years of Words Alive: A Conversation with Laurie Doyle

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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Laurie Doyle is a Words Alive super volunteer! She has mentored teens through the former Words Alive Westreich Scholarship, volunteered with the Adolescent Book Group at Lindsay School (a school for pregnant and parenting teens) and she served on the Words Alive Board of Directors from 2002 - 2009, including as the first Board Chair after founder Leslye Lyons. She was instrumental in launching our annual Author Event (now in its 20th year!) and building the infrastructure for its continued success. Words Alive is so grateful for her years of dedicated leadership and service.

Now, a few words from Laurie!

What drew you to Words Alive?

When Leslye Lyons told me about her idea for Words Alive, I was sold from the beginning. I loved the idea of helping at-risk teens and young children in low-income families learn the joy of reading and being read to. I also loved that Words Alive donated books for young children and teens to keep in their homes.

Could you please tell me a bit about your volunteer experience with the Adolescent Book Group (ABG) at Lindsay School?

ABG was my first experience volunteering with Words Alive. I actually helped Leslye and Cindy Polger find Lindsay School and we just knew it was the perfect place for us from the first minute we saw it and met Dawn, the teacher. 

Laurie at the 2011 Authors Luncheon

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

Hard to say … I think the most meaningful experience would be ABG and mentoring but being on the Board was a definitely wonderful and challenging experience.

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

Getting the incredible office space is amazing and shows that Words Alive is here to stay because of all of its amazing work.

What book made a significant impact on your life?

Hmmm, I’m not sure about impact but one that stayed with me forever would be The Heart’s Invisible Furies by John Boyne. It’s my all time favorite book.

Meet Genielysse!

Hello! My name is Genielysse Reyes, and I am thrilled to join the Words Alive team as the new Volunteer Coordinator.

I enter this role with years of experience in working with different organizations that advocate tutoring, mentorship, transformative philanthropy, and creative storytelling. My interest in these fields sparked during my undergrad career at UC Riverside. I decided to study psychology and creative writing, and as I studied, I volunteered…a lot. Street cleanups, shelter homes, campus events, afterschool programs, theater concession stands, you name it. I fell in love with volunteering, because it opened so many opportunities for me to connect with my community and create fun memories with my peers.

This emphasis on community and connection followed me as I earned an MFA in writing for children from Simmons University in Boston. I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a writer, for books were some of my childhood best friends. They made my imagination a safe space, and they offered my young self endless ways to grow as a human. Perhaps that’s why it felt natural for me to write stories for young people; these are formative years that call for comfort, validation, and wonder. And through writing, I felt yet again that I was connecting with so many people who shared my narrative or wanted to learn outside of their own. The writing community became one of my favorite spaces.

When I found out about Words Alive, my heart soared. It was an organization that combined my loves: volunteering, community, and books. Here, I can support the amazing community of volunteers that bring the joy of reading into classrooms and homes. I understand the difference they’re all making, and I hope to witness more and more of their spark. I am so excited to start and be part of Words Alive’s story.   

“One book I’m currently reading is “The Last Cuentista” by Donna Barba Higuera. I love that this book emphasizes how storytelling, especially stories rooted in our cultures, is necessary for a sound and beautiful world. It really hits home for me and my work. ”

— Genielysse Reyes

The World We Want: Empathy, Awe, and Human Connection

“When we come to it
We must confess that we are the possible
We are the miraculous, the true wonder of this world
That is when, and only when
We come to it.”

— Maya Angelou

Each year, Words Alive selects a theme that guides our programming and influences the anchor texts explored in the classroom. We are excited to announce the 2024-25 program theme, The World We Want: Empathy, Awe, and Human Connection.

There is something quietly radical about recognizing our connection to each other and the world around us. It starts small — with a book, a conversation — and it grows into something transformative, even revolutionary.

This year, we’re inviting young readers to embark on a journey that transcends the page, weaving through conversation, writing, and play. Together, we’ll explore the power of awe — because awe isn’t merely an emotion. It is a force that enhances well-being, deepens empathy, and draws us closer to one another.

This journey will reach 5,000 kids, teens, and families across our programs. They’ll dive into volunteer-led sessions filled with discussions, creative writing, books they can keep, and art as dynamic as they are. Our carefully chosen anchor texts are designed to ignite that spark of wonder - in the world, in relationships, and within themselves - creating a ripple effect of connection and curiosity.

In our Family Literacy and Read Aloud programs, which serve preschoolers through third graders, we’ll be sharing books like:

• I Need a Hug by Aaron Blabey

• I Am Perfectly Designed by Karamo Brown

• The Year We Learned to Fly by Jacqueline Woodson

Meanwhile, in our Adolescent Book Group program, students will engage with stories that reflect the beautiful, messy reality of intersectional identities, diverse family structures, and the social issues that shape our lives. Titles include:

• Kindred: A Graphic Novel Adaptation by Damian Duffy

• Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward

• ·Mañanaland by Pam Muñoz Ryan

To help these stories resonate even more, we’re equipping readers with learning kits - thoughtfully crafted hands-on activities to bring narratives to life and help young readers connect the text with their own lives and the world outside.

As readers turn the pages of these fresh, relevant texts, they will practice empathy, experience awe, and strengthen their human connections. They will expand their vocabularies, sharpen their critical thinking, and — most importantly — begin to see the world in new and unexpected ways.

Wonder isn’t just a feeling; it’s the beginning of a journey. It’s the first step in creating the world we want, and it all starts with one awe-inspiring story at a time.

If you would like to take part in Words Alive’s journey toward empathy, awe, and human connection, you can volunteer with us by clicking here or emailing [email protected]. Words Alive has fostered a vast, vibrant community of over one thousand volunteers, who work with young people, families, and educators to kindle a life-long love of reading. Our volunteers are the epitome of this year’s theme. They nurture the growth of imagination and the future of our world. Together, through action and stories, we can all pass along the awe and wonder from one reader to the next.

Meet Sara, Our August Page Turner Of The Month!

August 2024 Page Turner of the Month!

This August, we are happy to recognize Sara Salah as Page Turner of the month! Sara has been a Page Turner since May 2023 and has since read 10 books, totaling 101 hours!

Can you give a brief introduction of who you are? (As much as you’re willing to share).

I am a rising college senior (she/her) from Buffalo,New York that attends the University at Albany in Albany,NY. I plan to pursue a master's degree in mental health counseling. I am currently a housing manager on campus as well as the current Public Relations Chair for my university's Silent Book Club (a club formed by students where we can read and discuss). In my free time I enjoy reading a variety of books and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.

How did you come across Page Turners/Words Alive?

I came across Page Turners when looking for a remote volunteer organization on my university's website. It was featured as an option for those who enjoyed reading and also wanted to give back to the community. 

What are your hobbies/interests outside of volunteering?

Some of my interests outside of volunteering include spending time with family and friends, as well as my fur babies (three cats, 1 rabbit). I enjoy trying new restaurants as well as curling up with a good book (or my kindle). When I'm not in class or studying, I can be found in the kitchen with friends cooking/baking and watching a Netflix show. 

What is your favorite book(s) so far?

My favorite book so far has to be They Called Me a Lioness: A Palestinian Girl's Fight for Freedom. This book was very eye opening and one thing I really appreciated was the honesty/vulnerability throughout the book. Ahed (main character) shares her worries, fears, and the harsh realities of living under occupation without holding back. The book also highlighted the importance of community and shares just how much resilience her family and the community must have. To me, the book was informative, but it was also a call to action. It serves as a reminder of the influence that even one person can have on human rights. 

If you would like to join Sara in their participation, you can sign up to be a Page Turner here. 

Page Turners Intern-mission

Hey, everyone!

Lanie here giving you a quick intern-mission (see what I did there) to give y’all an update about my experience here at Words Alive.

My time as the Page Turners intern is coming to a close. This internship has given me the opportunity to see up close the power of literature, and how it brings communities together. Our mission can only truly be done with the help of our volunteer’s time and engagement. Seeing all the people who volunteer and take their time to help make an impact to our schools was gratifying, to say the least. It only made me become more passionate about continuing to become a resource for my community.

Reading, especially, accessible reading is crucial for our social and critical development. Folks from all types of backgrounds and ages helped create a path of change in the education system while experiencing the power of reading. Our future generations have you to thank for our dedication to their education. Reading the reviews, and discovering new titles to add to our curriculum made me wish I had something similar when I was younger. It's such a fun, engaging way to connect, and simultaneously give back to our community.

I appreciate interning at Words Alive, and meeting a team that is welcoming and encouraging about my growth. Most importantly, I had a manager who empathetically guided me through the highs and lows that come with working in non-profits and education. I couldn’t have picked a better introduction into the hectic, yet thrilling, career of education and education equality. I am so proud to have worked here, and am excited to see where the future leads me next.

Monthly Heroes

By Vikki Bowes-Mok, Words Alive Volunteer

Since 2015, Karen Malin has donated to Words Alive — every month!

“By giving monthly, I am actually able to increase my support as compared to making one donation, which might have more of an impact on my budget,” said Karen Malin, a Words Alive Board member, who learned about the nonprofit from a bookmark she received at an author event at Warwick’s. “As a retired educator, I am convinced that providing opportunities for children and their families to enjoy reading, to create stronger bonds by sharing books together and to increase home libraries are all vital for creating equal life opportunities for children of all backgrounds.” 

Words Alive’s sustaining donor model is a convenient way for supporters to provide crucial and reliable support to provide exemplary programming that makes reading matter to the 5,000+ children, teens, and families Words Alive serves each year.

According to the Chronicle of Philanthropy, “recurring-giving programs are growing in popularity. And for good reason: Donors who give monthly are more likely to stick with an organization. They also provide a reliable source of revenue and are likely to give more over their lifetime than donors who give once or twice a year.”

This has proven true for Words Alive, which nurtures its eight monthly donors and hopes to expand the regular giving with new supporters.

“Regular contributions from monthly donors enable us to have a greater, and sustainable, long-term impact in the San Diego community,” said Tracy Dahlkamp, Donor Engagement Manager for Words Alive. “We appreciate all our donors so much but are especially grateful to those who are able to contribute monthly.”

Words Alive understands the life-changing power of reading. Reading helps people succeed in school and the workplace but reading also changes lives in ways far beyond this. The purpose of Words Alive is to make reading matter – truly matter – for young people and families in every community in San Diego and beyond, so they have the power to write their own stories. 

“I really wanted to support Words Alive not only with my volunteer time and specific talents, but financially as well,” said Malin, a passionate advocate for education and reading. “People should remember that you don’t have to have a large bank account, a big trust fund or a huge income to be able to make an impact financially. The smaller monthly donations definitely do add up and help to keep the fires burning!”

To join our team of monthly heroes, simply click here and choose “recurring” - you will be able to adjust the amount, frequency, and duration of your gift. Thank you so much for your support of our mission to inspire young readers!