Promoting Literacy with a Chalkboard

Why is literacy/reading important to you?

Why should someone learn to read?

What inspires you to read, to learn, to tutor?

During the fall of 2013, my work with the Literacy Network included launch of the Chalkboard Project, a public service campaign to raise awareness about the importance of literacy and to promote programs that help members of the Dane County community improve their literacy skills.

The concept sprang from a discussion in the Literacy Network Board's marketing committee, and is quite simple.

The project provides Literacy Network learners, tutors, staff members and board members, along with community members, an opportunity to share thoughts and inspirational messages about the importance of literacy and reading.

Because images can speak more powerfully than words alone, each participant was invited to write the message on a small chalkboard and – to put faces with words – be photographed with the chalkboard.

In September, the Literacy Network began sharing these images through Facebook and LinkedIn, posting up to three per week. Others have been encouraged to further share the photos with their own networks to express support for efforts to improve literacy skills and enhance of the lives in the community.

Volunteer Kim Keyes photographed the learners and tutors featured in the project, while I photographed several board members, civic and community leaders, and members of the local media.

The project has continued through the end of 2013, and I hope to do a second round in 2014, giving more people a chance to express their thoughts.

Meantime, I've posted my Chalkboard images on Flickr to continue sharing the messages. Here is the link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/29720498@N08/sets/72157638932776836/