Volunteers from the UNF community will celebrate Dr. Seuss’ birthday March 2 by reading to children in the 12th annual Read Across America event.

More than 500 children ages 4-9 from local schools will visit UNF, and volunteers from the Honors Program American Democracy Program and Volunteer Center will teach them about the importance and joy
of reading.

“This year it’s a totally different event than last year,” Director of Student Life Victoria Elian said. “Last year it was more to raise awareness about the day.”

Read Across America is a national event hosted by the  National Education Association to celebrate the birthday of Theodor Seuss Geisel, commonly known as Dr. Seuss, by calling out for every child to celebrate the joys of reading.

“I want the event to help focus on literacy,” said Rebecca Stevens, assistant director at the Volunteer Center. “I want to help kids read. It’s a positive thing to do.”

Groups sponsoring the event are purchasing books for $1 for the children to take home after the
celebration.

“Right now our Honors Program is focused on fundraising and having our students volunteer for the event,” said Sarah Deirlein, student director of the Honors Program. “Our goal is to raise $573 to purchase books the children can take home with them.”

Volunteers must devote at least one hour to Read Across America, and the work that is needed ranges from reading to the children to setting up and organizing.

“There will be some organizing tasks, but obviously with 600 kids there will be a lot of movement,” said Heather Burk, coordinator for Honors Service Learning. “Our primary interest is to have people help read to kids.”

A member of the Jacksonville Jaguars might also be present, although it has not been finalized, Burk said.

Volunteers wanting to participate in Read Across America can fill out a registration form and e-mail it to the Volunteer Center, or they can drop it off in the Greek Affairs office.

E-mail Kristina Nugent at news@unfspinnaker.com.