By: Lacy Nelson

Editor: Adeyinka Ogunlegan

JLW volunteers distribute books and snacks to children at the Bright Beginnings Fall Literacy Event.

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss

Reading has always been the heart of the Junior League of Washington’s (JLW) mission. For many members, the commitment to supporting literacy throughout the community is part of what inspired them to join the League.

One of the committees responsible for upholding this commitment is the Bright Beginnings Initiative (BBI), which JLW established in 1990. For over 30 years, it has been a major driver in empowering and uplifting children who experience instability across the Washington, D.C. region.

In 2018, BBI built a state of the art learning center in D.C.’s Ward 8 – adding a brick and mortar commitment to those they serve. This space has become a beacon of light and stability for many community members, and gives parents peace of mind that their children are not only safe, but are also learning and growing daily.

The learning center also serves as the space where League members have joined hands with BBI to host one of their two annual Literacy Nights. The Literacy Nights  provide a valuable opportunity for members to connect directly with children and ensure they have a book – or two – to open, explore and learn. 

This year, committee members worked alongside BBI to find age-appropriate books to help spur a love for reading and introduce young minds to the new worlds they can explore when they open a book. From board books for new readers to chapter books for those looking for their next literary challenge, the evening highlighted just how impactful reading can be for children. 

JLW volunteers pose for a photo during the Bright Beginnings Fall Literacy Event.

Jordan Team, Chair of the Bright Beginnings Committee, reflected on the evening spent sharing the League’s love for reading and helping children unlock the joy of a good book (and tasty snack!).

“For us, it’s a really tangible way to see the impact JLW has on Bright Beginnings,” said Team. “It’s also the time we get to meet the kids and see how excited they are to pick out books, which helps really connect our work to the mission of the League and to the impact BBI has on the community.”

“I found it personally very rewarding,” continued Team. “The kids are adorable and it’s nice to think of them going home and reading these books with their families.”

The Bright Beginnings Committee works with  JLW Resolution Read initiative to donate thousands of books to children across the Washington, D.C., region.