ABQ Reads director will walk 56 miles in four days to raise awareness about the importance of early childhood literacy

The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce today announced an event designed to raise awareness about the importance of early childhood literacy. Steps for Students: A Literacy Initiative is a 56-mile journey that Alan LaSeck, Director of the Albuquerque Reads program for the Chamber, will make from June 16-19. The walk will include a stop at seventeen public libraries throughout the city of Albuquerque where LaSeck will host a brief story time for library guests before departing for the next library.

The goal of the event, which will be primarily social-media-driven, is to raise awareness about the importance of early childhood literacy and to raise funds to purchase books for the Albuquerque Reads program. A gofundme.com account has been set up for the walk. To donate, go to http://www.gofundme.com/albuquerquereads  

"During the 2014-2015 school year, the Albuquerque Reads program provided 10 books to each kindergarten participant so that they could start a home library," said LaSeck. "We know that books are a wonderful way to bring families together and to help instill a love for reading. It's our hope that this walk will allow us to provide even more books to students in the next school year," he said. The walk is LaSeck's brainchild.

The goal of the Albuquerque Reads program is to ensure that every participating child completes kindergarten reading at or above grade level. Reads, in its twelve years operating, has made a tremendous difference in the lives of thousands of children by connecting them with volunteer tutors who help to develop their reading and critical thinking skills. Albuquerque Reads is currently in three Albuquerque Public Schools. In the 2014-2015 school year more than 250 kinder students from Title 1 schools benefitted from the one-on-one tutoring of more 475 dedicated volunteers.

About the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce mission is to make our community a place where businesses can grow and prosper, where people want to raise their families and where tourists want to visit. As the voice of business since 1917, we envision New Mexicans living in safe neighborhoods, working in rewarding careers at thriving businesses, while their children attend great schools, and enjoy their leisure time in one of the most beautiful regions on Earth. More information about the Chamber is accessible online at www.abqchamber.com.