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.

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.