Jumpstart at Ohio University-Zanesville received a $500 donation from the American Eagle Outfitters Foundation.  American Eagle, a Jumpstart national corporate partner, provides volunteers, logo apparel and on-going support for the mentoring literacy program.  They believe in Jumpstart’s mission of working toward the day all children enter school prepared to succeed. “We really appreciate the support of American Eagle Outfitters,” says Colleen Romito, site coordinator. “Their corporate and local support has really helped make a difference in the lives of the children we serve.”

The donation will be used to sponsor the first Walk for Literacy event. The inaugural Walk for Literacy will be held in April during the Week of the Young Child.  The event is designed to gather children, families and community members to celebrate the importance of reading; to engage the community in literacy experiences; to connect communities to Jumpstart and create an awareness of the importance of early literacy and to launch a national campaign for World Reading Day scheduled for August. The event will include a walk/fun for children and families, literacy, hands-on learning, healthy eating and exercise programs, community booths, healthy snacks and more.

Jumpstart, a national early literacy organization, inspires children to learn, adults to teach, families to be involved and communities to progress together. For more information about the Jumpstart program at Ohio University Zanesville or to volunteer for the Walk for Literacy, please contact Colleen Romito at 588.1555.