Sometimes something simple can spark something huge. A simple storybook, like the Three Bears, can spark a life-long passion in young students. The campus Book Buddies program targets elementary students struggling with illiteracy in hopes of impacting their reading experiences.

For two years campus students have volunteered their time at Pinedale Elementary to read to young students.

“I think that the students enjoy reading with us,” Andrew Kaiser, ’05, said. “The kids are really responsive and are a lot of fun to be around. It’s cool to see them becoming better readers; there has been a big difference in their reading skills already, and we’ve only been coming for a few weeks.”

The youngsters look forward to the time they get to spend with their buddy. Their shy attitudes quickly fade as they begin to develop friendships with the older students.
Their visits often are the perks of a student’s week.

“I like to read with my buddy,” Danielle, Pinedale Elementary student, said. “It is fun to read; it makes me feel smarter. My buddy is nice to me, and we talk about lot of things.”

The joy that the children receive is a result of the dedication that students put forth.

“Book buddies has been a great opportunity for me to get involved with people in the community,” Kaiser said. “I think that everyone who participates learns something about themselves or other people. It is a very rewarding experience, and I don’t think anyone has been disappointed.”

Going the extra mile with a student can make all the difference. The children may appear shy at first and unwilling to open up to anyone, but that soon changes.

“I tell my buddy about what I did [during the week],” Jacob, Pinedale Elementary student, said. “He asks me what I did each day, and he is really nice. He helps me read, and is my friend.”

Book Buddies not only offers students community service, but also the opportunity to help those who are struggling. Regardless of their motives, everyone who participates can learn something and build character.

For more information on joining the Book Buddies program, contact the high school office at 299-1695, ext. 5 or go online at www.csufresno.edu/univrelations/feature/spotlight/child.html. Readers can also access The Feather’s archives and read “”Club empowers young readers”” article by Mary Kneefel on Oct. 5, 2004. Go to www.thefeather.com for more information and use the search field.