Reading Matters to Young Students – Assistance League® of Santa Clarita

Inspired by the quote from author, Garrison Keillor, “A book is a gift you can open again and again” the creation of the reading program, Birthday Books began. To encourage literacy and a love of reading through book ownership, Assistance League® of Santa Clarita developed Birthday Books, a philanthropic program serving TK-2nd grade students in Santa Clarita Valley Title 1 elementary schools. Every month, member volunteers meet with students who are celebrating their birthdays. Volunteers help the students select two new books: one for their home library and one to donate to their classroom. When time permits, volunteers also read aloud to the students. During the 2025-2026 school year, Assistance League member volunteers will provide over 500 hours of service, helping more than 1,400 students celebrate their birthdays and the joy of reading.
Research from the National Literacy Trust highlights the importance of this work, noting that book ownership is directly associated with increased reading enjoyment, frequency, and confidence. By providing children with books of their own, this program helps them build a strong foundation for lifelong literacy. Assistance League is proud to support the children in the SCV community. We are incredibly grateful to those who shop at The Resale Store and donate to our cause. Your support allows our volunteers to continue making a meaningful difference for students in the Santa Clarita Valley.