Just how important is the ability to read?

Imagine if William Shakespeare had never learned. Or what about the founding fathers? Or Susan B. Anthony, Madame Curie, or Martin Luther King, Jr.? Would they have made the same contributions to literature, science, civil rights, and peace that touch our lives today?

The ability to read--a skill so many of us take for granted--can be the difference between success and failure. Not just for those who aspire to positions of fame and influence, but for any future citizen of our communities.

I urge you to show your support for the SMART reading program today.

Take the story of Alan, who, as a second grader entering SMART, scored in the bottom 10 percent for reading ability. Although his parents read to him at home every day, he didn't like school because reading didn't come easily. Every morning it was a struggle just to get him to school.

Today, Alan is a semifinalist for the National Merit Scholarship. Who does his mother credit? His teachers and SMART.

Sign our petition today and give children like Alan the attention and inspiration they need to become readers and more confident people.

SMART (Start Making A Reader Today) is Oregon's leading children's literacy nonprofit. Our vision is an Oregon where every child can read and is empowered to succeed. We mobilize 9,000 volunteers every year to provide one-on-one reading support to K-3 children who need it. Participating children also receive new, take-home books. www.GetSMARTOregon.org www.ReadersChangeHistory.org