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When Kim Goehring found United Way of King County's Volunteer Reader Program on the Volunteer Solutions Web site, she knew this opportunity matched her interests and background perfectly. An experienced education professional, Kim uses her knowledge, talent and love for kids to read to them for one hour a week.

"It's such a wonderful way to give to children. I enjoy watching their eyes light up when I read to them," said Kim. "It's also a great chance for me to be creative and imaginative."

In one of her early experiences as a volunteer reader, Kim encountered a shy, quiet boy who wouldn't participate. Kim decided to use one of her old classroom tricks to help make the little boy feel comfortable with her - a puppet. The child responded immediately to Kim's request for help with her easily distracted and uncooperative puppet. The little boy helped get the puppet to listen and focus on the book and in the process finally joined in story time.

This experience is just one example of why Kim is excited about the program. She actively recruits her colleagues at the school where she works encouraging them to join in the fun.

"At school we always talk about the importance of reading and literacy," Kim mused. "This program sets the stage for literacy and makes learning a fun, imaginative experience for kids."

Volunteerism is one of United Way of King County's key strategies in getting kids ready for success in school. The Volunteer Reader Program helps children in child care, preschool and Head Start programs acquire critical early literacy skills by exposing them to new words and ideas and helping them develop longer attention spans.

So far more than 100 volunteers have read to more than 600 children through the Volunteer Reader Program. Many more volunteer reader opportunities are available. If you're a friendly, energetic and dependable adult that loves kids then get involved today!

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