January Newsletter: Help Us Grow Foundation, Inc.

The Help Us Grow Foundation, Inc. expresses gratitude to the volunteers—unsung heroes of literacy, embodying

BE THE DIFFERENCE™.

- H.U.G. Online Events

- H.U.G. Training and Info Session

- H.U.G. Highlights

- H.U.G. & Win sign up today!

- H.U.G. Tutor Training Opportunities here

- H.U.G. Events

- H.U.G. Testimonial

- H.U.G. Feedback Survey

- H.U.G. Partnership Highlights

- Why we H.U.G.: Resources and Stories

Please follow our Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube accounts to stay up to date on all of the good work we're doing!

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Online Events

Training: Monday - Thursday at 11:00 - 12:00 PM; 1:00 - 2:00 PM

H.U.G. Info Session

Monday - Thursday at 10:30 - 11:00 AM, 12:30 - 1:00 PM

Zoom line: 947 552 4041

Why H.U.G. Works

Growing Students, Growing Success at Mort Elementary

Big News! At Mort Elementary, something extraordinary is happening. Thanks to the vision and dedication of Mrs. Sangeeta Bhagwadeen-Girwar-Nath, the H.U.G. Reading Program has become a resounding success, sparking a love for reading and learning among students.

What started as a program for just 10 students inside the classroom during school hours has now grown to include the entire class—25 eager learners! The results have been phenomenal, with students improving their reading skills, building confidence, and even increasing attendance on Fridays to participate in H.U.G. sessions.

Mrs. Bhagwadeen shares in her powerful testimonial:

"The H.U.G. reading tutor program provides personalized, engaging support that helps students build confidence, improve reading skills, and develop a love for learning. Students look forward to their Friday sessions, which has even increased Friday attendance!"

This success story at Mort Elementary is proof that the H.U.G. Reading Program is working and changing lives. Watch Mrs. Bhagwadeen’s heartfelt testimonial and see why H.U.G. is inspiring a brighter future for students:

Together, we’re growing students, growing success, and growing hope. Mort Elementary’s story is just the beginning—H.U.G. is here to make a difference!

Join us and

BE THE DIFFERENCE™!

Call to Action: We Need Volunteers!

Do you know of a church group, company volunteer board, or a group of mission-minded folks that are looking to give back? Well, we would love to present our volunteering options to them! Help Us Grow Reading Program is fully virtual, including training, but we do have some in-person opportunities.

Email: Directorvr@hugreading.org

Make Your New Year's Resolution Make a Difference!

This year, take the opportunity to transform lives by becoming a H.U.G. tutor! Our tutors help children improve their reading skills virtually from anywhere, making a lasting impact on their future.

Join us at one of our Open Houses to learn how you can be part of this incredible mission. Whether you're an individual or part of a group, you're welcome to join us in helping students become confident, resilient, and independent learners. Together, we can:

Raise the U.S. national 4th-grade average reading level.
Empower students to BE THE DIFFERENCE™ for themselves, their families, and their communities.
Reduce the pipeline to prison by fostering literacy and social skills.

Building Momentum in 2025: Advancing Literacy and Expanding Opportunities

As we embark on a new year, we’re energized by the progress of the Help Us Grow Reading Program (H.U.G.) and the impact we’re making together in advancing literacy and educational equity. With your continued support, H.U.G. is transforming the lives of students, helping them achieve reading proficiency, build confidence, and develop character—laying the foundation for brighter futures.

January Highlights:

Expanding Our Reach: Since 2019, H.U.G. has supported 782 elementary students across Kentucky, Florida, and Massachusetts. As we move into 2025, we’re welcoming 120 students into the program, continuing to make a tangible difference in their academic journeys.
Dedicated Tutors: Our incredible team of over 680 tutors remains at the heart of our mission, delivering impactful literacy instruction and nurturing the next generation of confident readers.
Valuable Partnerships: Support from generous partners like Humana, Salesforce, Republic Bank, Dollar General, and Kroger enables us to expand our programs and sustain our mission. Together, we’re creating opportunities for students to thrive.
Shaping Future Leaders: With interns from leading institutions like the University of South Florida (USF), Rutgers University, Florida Atlantic University (FAU), and Arizona State University, we’re cultivating the next generation of professionals while advancing literacy education.

Your dedication drives our ability to empower students, inspire future leaders, and create lasting change. Together, let’s make 2025 a year of even greater impact—one word at a time. Let’s grow stronger, together!

Join Us for the H.U.G. Club Luncheon!

We’re excited to invite you to the Help Us Grow (H.U.G.) Club Luncheon on Thursday, January 9th at 12:00 PM (Noon) at the beautiful Cane Garden Country Club in The Villages, FL. Enjoy lunch on us when you sign up to support our mission of lifting literacy and making a difference in the lives of young readers.

Why Attend?

H.U.G. creates happy hearts by connecting like-minded individuals who are passionate about giving back. Together, we can:

Bond with a child: Share your love for reading and make a lasting impact.
Inspire a passion for literacy: Ignite a lifelong love for learning.
Create brighter futures: Help build a better tomorrow, one story at a time.

This is your chance to do good, feel great, and become a part of something truly meaningful. Let’s unite to spread the joy of reading and empower the next generation.

RSVP Today! Call or text (561) 336 0986 or email directorvr@hugreading.org to reserve your spot. We can’t wait to see you there!

H.U.G. & Win

Sign Your Students Up Here!

Join the H.U.G. & Win Program!

Keep your child's reading skills sharp year-round with our H.U.G. & Win Program. By engaging in educational games on ReadingEggs.com, children can earn up to $30 in gift cards while enhancing their literacy skills. It's a fun and rewarding way to prevent reading loss during school breaks.

How to Participate:

Sign Up: Complete our registration form.
Get Credentials: We'll provide your child's ReadingEggs.com login details.
Start Learning: Log in and begin playing educational games to earn points.
Earn Rewards: Accumulate points to receive gift cards.
Join Check-Ins: Attend our virtual Zoom sessions for fun activities, program updates, and a chance to win additional prizes.

For more information, contact us via text at (502) 465-8221 or email at datateam9@hugreading.org

Encourage your child to learn and earn with H.U.G. & Win!

H.U.G. Calendar

H.U.G. Info Session

We will be on Zoom from 10:30 - 11:00 AM, 12:30 - 1:00 PM to meet with YOU!

Please join us for updates, Info session and more!

Join Zoom Meeting:https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9475524041

Meeting ID: 9475524041

Welcoming Cheryl Patterson, Our New Director of Marketing & Public Relations

We are excited to welcome Cheryl Patterson as new Director of Marketing & Public Relations at The Help Us Grow Foundation! Cheryl brings over 20 years of experience in Public Relations and Marketing, with a proven track record of building impactful partnerships and driving successful campaigns for nonprofit organizations like Ronald McDonald House Charities and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

A proud graduate of Fisk University and the University of Detroit Mercy, Cheryl has been recognized as a leader and community advocate, including being featured on 20/20’s Special Series, “20 Something.” Her career reflects her deep commitment to service and her passion for creating meaningful connections.

In her role at H.U.G., Cheryl plans to intentionally increase our brand awareness to support recruitment, strengthen partnerships, and secure funding, all with the goal of expanding our impact in literacy and education. Her dedication to uplifting communities aligns perfectly with H.U.G.’s mission.

Please join us in welcoming Cheryl to the team as we look forward to the innovative ideas and energy she brings to H.U.G.’s journey!

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Help Us Grow Foundation Events

A Heartfelt Thank You to Republic Bank for Hosting H.U.G.!

On December 12th, Republic Bank graciously hosted the Help Us Grow (H.U.G.) Reading Program for an unforgettable day of book signing and holiday card stuffing. Their generosity provided the perfect setting for a meaningful collaboration that combined festive cheer with impactful community service.

With Republic Bank leading the charge, their incredible team joined forces with H.U.G. to sign books and prepare holiday cards filled with warmth and joy for children and families in need. The energy, enthusiasm, and support from Republic Bank made the event a true celebration of teamwork and giving back.

We are profoundly grateful to Republic Bank for not only hosting us but for embodying the spirit of community and literacy advocacy. Your commitment to making a difference is an inspiration, and we’re honored to partner with you in spreading holiday joy and the gift of reading.

Bringing Stories to Life at Mort Elementary’s Seasons Reading Event

In the heart of the holiday season, Nicholas Hodges, Director of Volunteer Training and Recruitment, joined Mort Elementary School for their Annual Seasons Reading Event. Donning a festive sweater and surrounded by a magical winter scene, Nicholas captivated the students with stories that sparked imagination and fostered a love for reading.

The event wasn’t just about books; it was about creating moments of wonder and connection. Nicholas’s storytelling reminded everyone of the transformative power of literacy—one story at a time. Thank you, Nicholas, for bringing the spirit of H.U.G. to Mort Elementary and inspiring young minds during this special time of year!

Sharing the Gift of Reading with Mt. Washington Kids

The joy of literacy was on full display as students from Mt. Washington proudly received their books from the Help Us Grow (H.U.G.) Reading Program! These young learners were all smiles as they held their new books, ready to embark on exciting reading adventures.

H.U.G. is proud to support students like these by fostering a love for reading and empowering them with the tools they need to succeed. Moments like these remind us why we do what we do—making a lasting impact on young readers and their futures. Thank you to everyone who helps make these moments possible! Together, we are growing the readers and leaders of tomorrow.

Expanding Our Reach to Empower Young Readers in Florida

We’re excited to announce two incredible new partnerships in Florida that are bringing the Help Us Grow (H.U.G.) Reading Program to even more students!

At the Village of Excellence Academy, we’ve launched our tailored reading intervention program for 2nd and 3rd graders, providing personalized support to help them build confidence and excel in reading.

Additionally, we’re teaming up with the Foster Elementary Boys and Girls Club to offer an after-school reading intervention program, giving students extra opportunities to strengthen their literacy skills beyond the classroom.

These collaborations mark a significant step forward in our mission to empower young learners and help them thrive academically. Together, we’re shaping brighter futures, one student at a time.

Staying Ahead of Cyber Threats: Protecting Our Digital Learning Environment

At The Help Us Grow Reading Program, we recognize the critical importance of safeguarding our digital platforms against evolving cyber threats. By understanding the risks and implementing proactive measures, we ensure a secure environment for our students, staff, and volunteers.

Cybersecurity: Types of Malware

Spyware: Enters a user’s computer gathers data from the device and user, and sends it to third parties without the user’s consent
Adware: This software displays unwanted pop-up adverts, which can appear on both your computer or mobile device. This can sometimes be irritating!
Ransomware: Encrypts files or locks the system, preventing access until a ransom is paid
Virus: Replicates itself by modifying other computer programs and inserting its own code into those programs.
Trojan horse: Disguises itself as legitimate software to gain unauthorized access to a computer system

Current Events in Cybersecurity:

Fire Scam Android Malware Poses as Telegram Premium to Steal Data and Control Devices - Fire Scam, a malware disguised as a Telegram app, exploited phishing to infiltrate devices via a fake app store, stealing sensitive data, monitoring user activity, and hijacking Telegram credentials. By leveraging trusted platforms and advanced techniques, it demonstrated the significant threat phishing-based malware poses to data privacy and cybersecurity.

Help Us Grow Reading Program

Testimonial Video

Watch a testimonial from Elan Jacobson, who was a valued member of our Data and IT Team. Hear him share his dedication to our mission and the impact of his time with us by clicking the video below!

Meet Khalifa, one of our dedicated H.U.G. interns.

Khalifa is a junior majoring in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity. With a passion for data analysis, Khalifa joined the H.U.G. Reading Program to contribute to our mission of improving literacy for children. During his internship, he honed his skills in data analysis and visualization, learning to interpret and present insights that informed strategies to enhance our program’s impact.

Khalifa’s dedication has made a tangible difference in the lives of the students we serve, reaffirming his commitment to combining technical expertise with meaningful societal contributions. When asked to describe H.U.G. in one word,

Khalifa chose "Growth"—a reflection of the program’s impact on students and his personal journey. His advice for future interns? "Develop strong communication skills to showcase your work and your passion for the program's mission." Thank you, Khalifa, for your incredible contributions to the H.U.G. mission!

We are grateful for our dedicated H.U.G Tutors. Thank you for your unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions. Here's to continued success as we progress together throughout the year ahead.

Let Your Voice Be Heard: Take the H.U.G. Tutor

Feedback Survey!

We’re eager to hear from you. Click button below to share your thoughts and help us grow stronger together. Your feedback is the key to making our programs even better. Survey powered by SurveyMonkey.

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