When ten-year old Adrian was asked what he wanted to be when he grew up, he responded with “the president of Mexico.” Martha, the director of Del Norte Children’s Home who posed the question, was impressed but knew what this would require of Adrian: the ability to read. Martha made it clear to Adrian, that if he was really interested in being the president, he would have to read a lot. From that moment on, you could count on finding Adrian tucked away in a nook somewhere in the Del Norte library reading one of the many books the library has to offer him. In fact, even a year after this conversation,Adriancan still be found in the library preparing for his presidency.
Adrian, enjoys a book at the library
With each visitor that arrives at Del Norte, we are certain to give them a tour of the library, emphasizing the importance of reading, encouraging each guest to spend an hour or so of their visit reading with a child. Through this initiative we have seen the children’s reading skills improve, even finding their interest in reading growing as they now enjoy reading on their own. Other local groups, individuals from churches and universities in the city who visit Del Norte are joining in these efforts, coming alongside the children as they develop their reading skills. As we strive to improve the reading skills of the children, we are hopeful this will plant a seed, assisting in developing them to become successful youth and eventually successful adults.