By Vikki Bowes-Mok, Words Alive Volunteer
Meg Mandel is Words Alive’s Adolescent Book Group Volunteer of the Year Award. The Adolescent Book Group (ABG) brings books alive for teenagers facing extraordinary circumstances such as unstable housing, systemic racism, and impact by the foster care and/or justice systems. Through projects, writing workshops, and spirited discussions, teens enhance their critical thinking skills, self-esteem, and ability to express themselves.
Meg has volunteered with Words Alive’s young adult programming since 2015, currently facilitating our teen book group at the Monarch School for youth facing housing instability. Her dedication to the students and program, coupled with her thorough preparation for each session, makes her an integral part of the book group team.
Meg lives in La Jolla and is the director of development for Congregation Beth Israel. She serves on the Women’s Philanthropy Board of the Jewish Federation of San Diego and is in a monthly book group that has been together for more than 10 years.
Now let’s hear from Meg about her work with Words Alive.
Why do you volunteer with Words Alive?
I love to read, and being part of Words Alive gives me a chance to share that with others. By fostering a love of reading, Words Alive helps students build confidence, expand horizons, learn about new ideas, and make connections to their own lives. Selfishly, being part of Words Alive is a lot of fun, and I always learn from the students in the class. It’s great to work as part of a team with committed volunteers, passionate teachers, and inspiring students.
Is there a story you’d like to share about working with Words Alive?
I am always energized and impressed by the students' insights and comments during discussions in our ABG sessions.
I have the privilege of working with several students for the second consecutive year. It has been wonderful to see so many of these students participate more actively in our ABG sessions. One student in particular stands out. Last year, he rarely spoke and was very reserved. This year, he takes initiative and contributes to discussions regularly. Watching him gain confidence and share his ideas is inspiring!
What are you reading right now?
I just started Trust by Hernan Diaz.
Any book recommendations?
I could go on and on, but a few of my top recommendations include: Let the Great World Spin by Colum McCann, The Overstory by Richard Powers, The History of Love by Nicole Krauss, Commonwealth and Tom Lake by Ann Patchett, Unaccustomed Earth by Jhumpa Lahiri, Migrations by Charlotte McConaghy.
Anything else you’d like to share about yourself?
I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I love taking advantage of San Diego’s great weather by swimming, biking, hiking, and walking with friends.