Piglet noticed that even though he had a very small heart, it could hold a rather large amount of gratitude.”
– A. A. Milne
As a young child, my heart was drawn to the spark of curiosity and wonder that stories have to offer. I read everything I could get my little hands on –Anne of Green Gables, The Chronicles of Narnia, Nancy Drew, and others. But my favourite was always Winnie the Pooh.
I could not have imagined a childhood without the gift of reading. And because of this gift, I have always been an avid reader, and I am a devoted life-long learner.
This is why I believe in CODE – because I believe in the life-changing power of reading and education.
Reading is not just an escape to a fantastic realm of magic. It shows us a reflection of our world and of ourselves. It unlocks the potential in every child and empowers them to lift themselves into a brighter future.
As a CODE donor, I have had the opportunity to visit the schools that my gifts help sustain. I have seen the enthusiasm and excitement of the children as they are inspired by their teachers and schoolwork. And I recognize that same spark of curiosity in their eyes that I had as a child – reading is truly magical and the adventure that is education.
I believe each of those children I met will go on to make a difference, and be a positive force in their communities, families, and for themselves.
That gives me incredible hope. And it also makes me grateful – not only for every opportunity I had as a child but for this opportunity I have now to offer the same kind of experience to children everywhere.
I have seen and felt the difference my gifts to CODE have made. It’s why I keep giving – because I know every dollar I give is doing the good work that I deeply believe in.
And I know that together, we can continue to open minds and spark a love of reading – and lifelong learning – in children all over the world.