Good Education for 3,000 Brazilian Kids post Covid

The Reading in Schools Project has been transforming lives, providing moments of learning and experiences that leave a lasting impact on the hearts of children and teenagers. The story of volunteer Grazielly illustrates this impact in a special way.

"My relationship with ACER dates back to my childhood, when they used to visit our school to carry out activities, or when we, through the More Education programme, would go there to participate in activities or games."

Grazielly fondly remembers the storytelling sessions, puppet theatre, and artistic activities. "I really enjoyed the storytelling and puppet theatre, but especially the activities that allowed us to paint and use our imagination." More than just playful moments, these experiences sparked in her a love for reading and a curiosity for knowledge. "I believe that having this contact from an early age made me develop an interest, especially in stories, as well as the curiosity to seek out and understand every new subject I discovered, whether through reading or my school lessons."

Today, Grazielly has decided to give back all that she has received throughout her life by becoming a volunteer in the same project that once inspired her. "I have always thought that voluntary work is a beautiful action," she states. "When I found the opportunity and saw that I had the time, I became interested and signed up because I also saw that it aligned with my future goals and would help me gain more understanding and acquire new life experiences. It was a very exciting decision, and at the same time, something I never imagined I would do. However, it has turned out to be very important and has given me a certain determination to do a good job, just as the other facilitators once did for me."

For her, giving is much more than a symbolic act; it means dedicating attention, effort, and love to brighten a child's day and build positive memories. "For me, it means giving my full attention, care, effort, and support so that I can bring joy and encouragement to someone's day, helping them to have a good moment and create wonderful memories."

In her own words, the experience has been enriching, helping her develop social skills, creativity, and empathy. "I hope to improve my communication, social interaction, listening skills, and attention, as well as enhance and stimulate my creativity. I believe this experience will greatly help me in learning how to interact with people, listen to them, and be willing to resolve conflicts, which is something that is highly valuable in both personal and professional environments."

As Grazielly herself says: "If you feel the desire, be a part of it! Open your hearts to this rich and transformative project."