A church that helps children get ready for kindergarten, an arts organization that brings creative expression into the classroom and a Kansas children’s author were among those honored Nov. 2 at Storytime Village’s annual Read & Rise Breakfast Gala in Wichita.
The breakfast brought together educators, community leaders and literacy advocates. Storytime Village presented its Literacy Legacy Awards to Arts Partners, Lead Wichita and Tabernacle Bible Church.
Arts Partners was recognized for helping children build literacy skills through the arts. Lead Wichita was honored for building partnerships and bringing community support to efforts that serve children and families.
Tabernacle Bible Church earned the award for its summer education program, which helps prepare children for kindergarten and gives students a chance to keep learning while school is out.
Kansas children’s author Angela Cervantes received the Literacy Champion Award for her work inspiring young readers through her books.
The Gordon Parks Academy third-grade choir opened the program under the direction of Eddie Peeples and Kiesha Cook. The Mead Middle School Color Guard took part in the opening ceremonies, and Darrius Ray sang the national anthem. Wichita Mayor Lily Wu presented a proclamation recognizing the importance of literacy. Fayola “Mr. Wichita” Oyatayo emceed the breakfast.
Storytime Village is a Kansas nonprofit that works with families and community partners to get free books and literacy resources to children in underserved communities.