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.
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.