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You Can BE THE DIFFERENCE™.
The Help Us Grow Reading Program is offering FREE Digital Literacy training to ALL seniors. We want to help you with technology and then you can Help Us Grow Literacy and change a child’s life. Join us online for 1:1 learning sessions and help build multigenerational connections that make a real impact.
Let’s do good—and feel good—together. | | | | September Core Value – Be Respectful
This month at H.U.G., we’re embracing the power of respect — for ourselves, for one another, and for the communities we serve. Being respectful means listening with empathy, valuing different perspectives, and treating everyone with kindness and dignity.
Let’s lead by example. Let’s Be Respectful. | | | | | | - H.U.G. Explainer Video - H.U.G. Training and Info Session - H.U.G. Highlights and Events
- H.U.G. & Win sign up today! - ALL Learning Opportunities click here - Online Learning events. Sign up here
- H.U.G. Internship Opportunities - H.U.G. Testimonial Video - H.U.G. Feedback Survey - H.U.G. Partnership Highlights - Why we H.U.G.: Resources and Stories | | | | | | | | | | H.U.G. Reading Program Explainer Video
We’re excited to share our official explainer video that captures the heart of the Help Us Grow Reading Program. In just a few minutes, you’ll see how our Verified Reading Mentors, research-based tools, and one-on-one virtual tutoring sessions are transforming lives and closing the literacy gap for Pre-K to 4th grade students.
Whether you're a parent, educator, or potential volunteer, this video shows how you can Be The Difference™ in a child’s reading journey. Click the video below to see how H.U.G. is changing lives through literacy. | | | | | | Online Learning Events Training: Monday - Thursday at 11:00 - 12:00 PM; 1:00 - 2:00 PM | | | | H.U.G. Info Session Monday - Thursday at 11:00 - 12:00 PM, 1:00 - 2:00 PM Zoom line: 947 552 4041 | | | | 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 | | | | | | | | 🎤 Join Us for Motivational Mondays Guest Speaker Series!
The H.U.G. Reading Program is proud to present our Motivational Monday Guest Speaker Series — virtual sessions held on select Mondays where inspiring leaders and changemakers share real-life stories, leadership lessons, and career advice with our interns and Verified Reading Mentors.
We invite you to join us whenever a guest speaker is scheduled and be part of these inspiring conversations that empower the next generation of leaders.
Leadership. Purpose. Growth. We’re building more than readers — we’re building future leaders.
Stay connected! We’ll be emailing, texting, and posting on social media to announce each featured guest and their session date.
All are welcome to attend and Be The Difference™. | | | | | | Next Up on Motivational Monday: KEVIN HARKER
We’re honored to welcome Kevin Harker, Executive Vice President of the American Heart Association’s Midwest Region, as our next Motivational Monday Guest Speaker! With over 35 years of leadership in public health and national partnerships, Kevin brings powerful insights on leadership, purpose, and making a lasting impact.
🗓️ Date: October 6, 2025 🕙 Time: 10:00 AM ET 📍 Location: Zoom
📲 Click here or scan the QR code on the flyer to RSVP and view his full bio! All are welcome to attend! | | | | | |
Help Us Grow Foundation Events
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H.U.G. & Salesforce Partner for Book Drive + Backpack Stuffing
On August 27, H.U.G. partnered with Kerstin from Salesforce at the New York Salesforce Tower for a special Book Drive + Backpack Stuffing Event. Our CEO, Janine Broussard, and Cybersecurity Director, Kyra Dixon, joined the Salesforce team to pack backpacks with school supplies and collect books for children in Grades K–3.
This collaboration reflects the power of service and partnership in action, ensuring students have the tools they need to learn, grow, and thrive. Together, we’re building brighter futures one book and one backpack at a time.
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Community, Connection & Literacy in Action!
On Tuesday, August 5, 2025, the Help Us Grow (H.U.G.) team proudly participated in the LMPD 8th Division’s Annual Night Watch Out at Warren-Walker Park in Louisville, KY! This annual event, organized by local law enforcement, brings neighbors together to strengthen community ties through public safety outreach, family-friendly activities, and resource sharing.
H.U.G. was honored to host an informational booth, where we highlighted our H.U.G. and W.I.N. literacy program, an initiative designed to motivate students through monthly reading challenges and fun educational incentives. Throughout the evening, over 100 families stopped by to connect with our team, learn about our mission, and spin our prize wheel!
Young learners walked away with school supplies and smiles, receiving giveaways like glue sticks, notepads, colored pencils, stress balls, and more! Even better, many families expressed strong interest in enrolling their children in our upcoming literacy programs for the school year.
Special thanks to the LMPD 8th Division for the invitation, and to every parent, child, and community member who stopped by. Your enthusiasm reminds us why we do what we do—to empower students and families through reading, encouragement, and connection.
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USF H.U.G. Club’s First Community Project
In August, the USF H.U.G. Club hosted its very first community project — a Book Drive filled with the joy of reading and connection. Families who attended enjoyed games, picked out books to take home, and shared in the excitement of literacy together.
We’re proud of our USF H.U.G. Club members for taking this first step in bringing the community together, and we look forward to many more opportunities to spread the gift of reading.
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H.U.G. Digital Navigators Empower Seniors at Christ Church United Methodist
Earlier this month, our H.U.G. team partnered with the Senior Adult Ministries at Christ Church United Methodist to host two Digital Navigator sessions on August 13 and August 20. Seniors received free one-on-one tech help — from navigating web browsers to answering everyday tech questions — and left with new digital confidence to support them in their daily lives.
A heartfelt thank you to Vicki, Herb, Jim, and Daniel for their patience, kindness, and expertise in making these sessions such a success. Together, we’re bridging the digital divide and showing what it truly means to Be The Difference™.
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H.U.G. at HCC Ruskin’s First Day Back!
In August, the Help Us Grow Reading Program joined the First Day Back Tabling Event at Hillsborough Community College – Ruskin Campus, connecting with students and sharing how they can Be The Difference™ through literacy and mentorship.
We were honored to have Dr. Jennifer Wells-China, President of HCC Ruskin, stop by and show her support!
A special thank you to Danielle Blaxton, our Director of Florida Schools, and Allen Chen, H.U.G. Club President, for leading with passion and representing H.U.G. so well.
Here’s to new partnerships, new mentors, and a wonderful semester ahead!
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Fall Session Prep Party at the University of Louisville
On August 26, our H.U.G. team hosted a Fall Session Prep Party at the University of Louisville, where backpacks and pencil pouches were packed with school supplies to help H.U.G. kids start the year strong.
A special thank you to our dedicated H.U.G. Ambassador, Vicki, for lending a hand and making the day extra special. From supplies to encouraging notes, every detail reflected the care and commitment behind our mission.
And of course—pizza, smiles, and community spirit made it a day to remember!, new mentors, and a wonderful semester ahead!
| | | | | | Humana + H.U.G. Book Drive Launch
On August 25, Melinda Pierre, H.U.G. Recruiting Manager – VISTA, delivered a book drive box to our partners at Humana. This marks the start of the Humana + H.U.G. Book Drive, a collaboration to place more books into the hands of children who need them most.
We are deeply grateful to Cindy and the Humana team for their partnership and commitment to literacy. Because every book shared is a step toward a brighter future. | | | | | |
H.U.G. at USF – Tampa & St. Pete
The Help Us Grow (H.U.G.) Foundation was excited to be back at the USF Tampa Part-Time Job Fair on September 3. We had a wonderful time connecting with students, sharing our mission, and showing how they can Be The Difference™ through literacy and mentorship. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our table!
Up Next: USF St. Pete – Tabling Event 🗓️ September 4, 2025 | 1:00 – 4:00 PM If you’re on the St. Pete campus, stop by our table to learn more about becoming a Verified Reading Mentor, making a difference in children’s lives, and building valuable skills for your career.
Don’t miss your chance to get involved this semester!
| | | | | | H.U.G. Impact in Action
We’re proud to share the growing impact of the H.U.G. Reading Program across Florida and Kentucky! 314 student participants and 368 tutor participants have been supported through one-on-one mentorship, literacy instruction, and community engagement.
Every number represents a story of growth — a child building reading skills and a tutor gaining experience while making a real difference.
Together, we’re creating brighter futures, one reader at a time.
| | | | | | We are grateful for our dedicated H.U.G Reading Mentors
Thank you for your unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions. Here's to continued success as we progress together throughout the year ahead. | | | | | | Explore More Ways to Get Involved with H.U.G.!
| | Free Tech Help for Seniors – Stay Connected and Confident!
Need help navigating your phone, email, or Zoom? Our trained Digital Navigators at H.U.G. are here to make technology simple, safe, and stress-free — at no cost to you! From spotting online scams to learning how to scan QR codes, we offer one-on-one support to help seniors stay connected with family, friends, and the world around them. No tech experience needed — just bring your questions, and we'll guide you step-by-step!
Ready to get started?
Call or text us at (813) 330-0117 or email directorvr@hugreading.org today! | | | | | | | | Is your child falling behind in reading? Don’t wait.
Give them the boost they need with Helps Us Grow (H.U.G.) @ Home — our 1-on-1, virtual reading sessions designed for elementary learners
Verified reading mentors Fun, engaging, and proven strategies Real-time progress tracking
With our One-to-One Model, every session purchased gives a free session to a child in need. Families benefit from flexible scheduling, affordable options, and progress updates every step of the way.
Ready to see your child grow in confidence, skill, and love for reading?
📲 Scan the flyer QR or message us to get started: 📧 directorvr@hugreading.org | 📞 (813) 330-0117 | | | | | | Helps Us Grow and Win (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 or call at +1 (786) 232-3449 or email at hugandwin@hugreading.org
Encourage your child to learn and earn with H.U.G. & Win! | | | | | | H.U.G. & Win WINNERS ANNOUNCED!
The results are in—and our readers are on fire!
Congratulations to Isaac G., our August Help Us Grow & WIN raffle winner, who walked away with a $140 gift card for his outstanding commitment to reading!
We’re also proud to spotlight our Top Readers of the Month:
Liam V. Zephyr A. Isaac G.
At H.U.G., every minute spent reading counts. Every game, lesson, and log-in adds up—and we love celebrating progress in fun and meaningful ways. Stay tuned… this month, the winner could be YOU!
| | | | | | Become a Homeschool Volunteer with H.U.G.
Looking for a meaningful way to build skills while making a difference? The Help Us Grow (H.U.G.) Reading Program invites homeschool students to become volunteers — dedicating just one hour a week to help children succeed in reading.
As a volunteer, you’ll gain valuable benefits such as resume and leadership skill building, community networking, workforce technology skills, and internship opportunities after high school. Plus, service hours count toward scholarship applications, and letters of recommendation are available upon request.
With 100% virtual training and flexible scheduling, it’s easier than ever to get involved and Be The Difference™.
Ready to start? Scan the QR code on the flyer or email directorvr@hugreading.org | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | H.U.G. Info Session We will be on Zoom from 11:00 - 12:00 PM, 1:00 - 2:00 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 | | | | | | Want to Build Your Resume? We Can Help You!
If you're a high school senior or college student looking to make an impact and gain valuable experience, consider starting a H.U.G. Club on your campus!
By launching a H.U.G. Club, you’ll lead peers in mentoring young readers, earn field or service hours, and gain leadership and teamwork skills—all while supporting literacy in your community
✨ Why Start a H.U.G. Club? -
Strengthen your resume with leadership experience -
Make a real difference in students’ lives -
Earn hours toward fieldwork, practicum, or service learning -
Collaborate with friends or classmates for a shared cause -
Eligible for #WorkStudy and #FederalWorkStudy Scan the QR code to get started today and bring H.U.G. to your school! Let’s make 2025 a year of impact, leadership, and growth!
Learn more at H.U.G. website | | | | | | Join Our Team – Exciting Internship & Job Opportunities!
H.U.G. is growing, and we're looking for passionate individuals to join our mission! If you're eager to make a difference in education and literacy, check out our available opportunities:
This is a fantastic chance to gain hands-on experience, develop professional skills, and contribute to meaningful change in education.
📩 Apply today! Send your resume to directorhr@hugreading.org | | | | | |
Work-Life Balance, the H.U.G. Way
Meet Shayla Branch, our Kentucky Director of Schools, as she shares how H.U.G. supports not just her career but also her role as a devoted mom of three. At H.U.G., we believe in more than just work — we believe in people. From flexible schedules to nurturing leadership, our culture is built on collaboration, compassion, and care.
What Shayla highlights about H.U.G.: ✔️ Flexibility to prioritize family and personal life ✔️ A supportive, uplifting leadership that notices and cares ✔️ A collaborative environment where everyone — from interns to directors — feels valued
🎥 Watch the video to hear Shayla’s story and see why at H.U.G., we’re empowered every day to Be The Difference™.
| | | | | | Did You Know?
Literacy challenges don’t just affect children — they impact adults across the U.S. as well. Research shows that: 20% of U.S. adults read below a living wage level 54% have a literacy level below sixth grade
At H.U.G., these numbers remind us why our mission matters. By investing in literacy today, we’re not only helping children succeed in school — we’re breaking cycles of struggle and building stronger futures for families and communities
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Tips to Help Your Child Learn to Read
At H.U.G., we believe every small step can make a big difference in building strong readers. Here are three simple, fun strategies parents can use at home: -
Sound Out Letters Daily – Practice one letter and its sound each day with flashcards, letter magnets, or a “sound hunt.” -
Blend Simple CVC Words – Teach kids to stretch and blend sounds in short words like cat, dog, or sun. -
Sing the Alphabet with Purpose – Go beyond the ABC tune by pointing to letters and saying their sounds. Together, these activities help children build confidence, fluency, and a love for reading. | | | | | | | | 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. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Market & Partnership Updates | | | | | | News That Informs Help Us Grow Reading Program | | | | | | | | -
NYTimes: What Happens to Your Brain When You Retire?
- Visit the link
- How Healthy Is Your ‘Social Biome’? Take Our Quiz.
- Visit the link- 10 Small Things Neurologists Wish You’d Do for Your Brain.
- Visit the link- A New Campaign Against Loneliness Starts With a Potluck
- Visit the link | | | | Copyright © 2023 Help Us Grow Foundation, Inc.
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