Dawn Miller, Executive Director of Read Aloud West Virginia, shares the organization’s impact across the Mountain State, highlighting its mission to foster a love of reading in children. Speaking from the book room in Charleston, where over 29,000 books were distributed last year, Dawn explains how Read Aloud introduces children to books and keeps them coming back for more.
Through partnerships like the one with The Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation, Read Aloud has expanded its reach, bringing book distributions to schools in Eastern Kanawha County, including Chesapeake Elementary, Sharon Dawes Elementary, and now Valley PK-8 in Fayette County. Most recently, students at East Bank Middle School each received three new books to take home—an effort aimed not only at nurturing existing readers but at reaching children who haven’t yet discovered the joy of reading.
Dawn reflects on the excitement of seeing students’ faces light up when they find a book that speaks to them. These moments are at the heart of Read Aloud’s mission: connecting kids with books that could transform them into lifelong readers. With the support of partners like The Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation—who provide critical funding for staff, technology, and book distribution—Read Aloud continues to ensure that every child has access to books that inspire curiosity and learning.
Dawn emphasizes the power of adults reading aloud to children—not for assignments or quizzes, but for pure enjoyment—planting seeds that benefit children for years to come. She closes by expressing her gratitude upon receiving the 2025 Change Maker Award, honoring the vision of founder Mary Kay Bond, the dedicated volunteers, community supporters, and donors who make Read Aloud’s work possible across West Virginia.