Reading Rally events are one of the ways EWI promotes literacy. EWI of Indianapolis annually champions a literacy initiative, which supports local school children through outreach and financial support.

2009 Reading Rally Recap

Take Flight and Soar to New Heights

That is the theme for Central Catholic School where our Reading Rally was held on October 16th for 81 students in the 2nd to 6th grades. Ironically, the Soar stands for Successful Outstanding Awesome Readers! With the help of storyteller, Cindy Childers from the Shelby Branch Library, we shared the book “The Soaring Feather” with the students. Students were engaged in the story of a little bird looking for his soaring feather. Prior to the Reading Rally, students had the opportunity to write their own story. One winner from each grade was selected by EWI members and awarded a prize. After the event, Principal Sara Browning shared that for at least two of the winning students this was a tremendous self-esteem boost for them!

All of this could not have been orchestrated without the generosity and assistance of many. Take a look at all the support:

• EWI membership came through, once again, and overwhelmingly provided most of the school supplies (or a monetary donation) needed for the classroom baskets. A big thanks to all that donated!
• Sandy Heil from Walker asked her co-workers to donate supplies and they did very generously. Thanks, Sandy for involving others!
• Charles C. Brandt made a cash donation to help with the purchases. Thanks, Chris for asking your firm to support the Reading Rally.
• In the height of the flu season, Tina Wenstrom of Clarian provided much needed hand sanitizer. Thanks, Tina for helping to keep the school healthy!
• Each student received two books and snacks that were placed in IPL bags obtained by Anna Grubbs. Thanks, Anna for helping us to keep it all together!
• Through a contact at Half Price Books, Hannah Kiger of Integrated Engineering Solutions, Inc., they donated 9 boxes of books for the school. Thanks, Hannah for your suggestion!
• In the midst of downsizing, the school benefited from a “boatload” of binders and folders from Ernst & Young. Thanks, Joni for making that happen!
• And, remember those hats, scarves, and gloves you donated in the spring? Those were donated to the school too. They were very excited about those as well.
• And, of course, the volunteers at the event – Terrie Baumgartner, Julie Bigham, Philana Cunningham, Jan Dubbs, Julie Easton, Stephanie Haywood, Chris Hendrickson (and her daughter!), Debbie Hogan, Tippy Swinford, Kimberly Williams, and Betty Wills. Your helping hands were outstanding!

For a school where about 70% of the students have reduced or free tuition, we were able to share our soaring feathers with them. Thank you! Click here to see photos of the event! Click here to read the winning stories in each grade.