By Frederika Zystra
“Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.”
—Margaret Fuller
There’s nothing quite as gratifying as the look of wonderment and pride on the face of a child as they realize they can read. It’s as if someone handed them the key that unlocks magic.
Of course, it’s almost like magic learning to read. Stories can take you to new and exciting places, let you ride along on adventures, and identify with heroes. Once we learn to read, a new world opens. When a child learns to read, they are exponentially more likely to become a lifelong reader, be better educated, and have opportunities to excel in a chosen career.
Created by the San Miguel Quilters together with members of the Mexico Modern Quilt Guild, the quilt is named “Dreamsicle.” It’s proudly donated to Libros para Todos in support of their dedication to the education of children in our community. The San Miguel Quilters, a diverse group of 13 women, have donated dozens of gorgeous handmade quilts to charities over the past decades.
“Dreamsicle” has been professionally quilted by Maribel Trejo and is perfect for a lap quilt or may be hung on the wall as an exquisite piece of art. It’s valued at US$750.00.
It will be displayed at Geek & Coffee for at least 10 days prior to the December 11 raffle. Raffle tickets may be purchased at Geek & Coffee, through members of San Miguel Quilters or Libros para Todos. PayPal @ danielaelenafranco@gmail.com “friends” and note “raffle.” Shipping available.
About Libros para Todos:
Especially in rural San Miguel communities, reading comprehension in schoolchildren is alarmingly low. Classrooms are often overcrowded, and children have no access to libraries or bookstores.
The volunteers at Libros para Todos understand how essential reading is—to develop critical thinking skills, engender imagination and creativity, foster empathy, and create strong communication abilities. Their mission is to inspire children, especially those from low-income families in rural areas, to develop a lifelong love of reading. Since 2013, they’ve accomplished this in 22 rural communities surrounding San Miguel de Allende and Dolores Hidalgo by partnering with schools, organizing workshops, summer camps, and providing free cultural events. Each year, they organize a “Big Read” in which over 600 children read a selected book. When they finish, the author visits their villages to answer questions and encourage them to continue to unlock the magic and explore the possibilities.
The theme for this quilt is DREAM BIG
Carefully selected fabrics in shades of purple, lavender, and orange, represent our hopes for these beautiful young readers.
Purple is the color of imagination, wisdom, and creativity. Lavender represents optimism and empathy. Orange signifies positivity, communication, encouragement, and joy.
Join us in loving support of this wonderful organization and the exciting young minds of our future leaders they encourage.
Charity Raffle
To Benefit Libros para Todos
Geek & Coffee
Fábrica la Aurora
Raffle Tickets 50 pesos apiece; 11 for 500 pesos
100 of donations proceeds to Libros para Todos
Winning Raffle Ticket selected at Geek & Coffee on December 11, 2022
