Students at Design39Campus in the Poway Unified School District.
Sometimes, big community change starts with a group of curious 5th graders asking, "How can we help?"
That's exactly what happened when students at Design39Campus in the Poway Unified School District learned about book deserts in San Diego County, areas where children and families have limited access to books. After researching the issue, the students were inspired to take action and reached out to Words Alive to see how they could help bring more books into the hands of young readers.
What happened next was nothing short of inspiring…
The students raised an incredible $1,350 to support Words Alive's literacy programs and obtained a Little Free Library charter, determined to create a lasting impact in a community that could benefit from greater access to books.
Words Alive Family Program Manager Dr. Faryl Kander connected with the students and helped bring their vision to life. Together, they identified a location where the students' efforts could make a meaningful difference. Through a partnership with Episcopal Community Services (ECS), the Little Free Library found its new home at Harbison ECS Head Start in National City, located in ZIP code 91950, one of the book deserts the students had identified during their research.
Hand painted Little Library.
But this wasn't just any Little Free Library…
The students poured their creativity into the project, hand-painting the library with a playful Snoopy-inspired design that celebrates the joy of reading and imagination. Bright, welcoming, and full of personality, the library is sure to catch the eye of young readers and invite them to discover a new favorite book.
When installation day arrived, Words Alive Director of Learning & Engagement Melinda Casey, PMP, joined the students to bring their vision to life. She even brought along her trusted puppy companion, Lulu, who quickly became a favorite guest during the celebration. Together, students, parents, Melinda, and Lulu installed the Little Free Library and marked an exciting milestone for the community.
WA’s team member Melinda Casey with Lulu.
The students' generosity didn't stop there. They also created heartfelt Words of Inspiration cards filled with encouraging messages for young readers. Their notes celebrate reading, dreaming big, and believing in yourself, small messages with the power to make a big difference. The students also shared other handmade creations, many of which now brighten the Words Alive office and bring smiles to our team every day.
Words Alive recently had the privilege of spending time with these remarkable students and seeing firsthand the passion, thoughtfulness, and enthusiasm behind their project. Their commitment reminds us that age is no barrier to making a meaningful impact. They saw a need, rolled up their sleeves, and got to work creating a solution.
We are incredibly grateful to the students of Design39Campus for their partnership, creativity, and generosity. Thanks to their efforts, more children and families in National City will have access to books, opportunities to read together, and a welcoming place to discover new stories.
At Words Alive, we believe books can open doors, spark imagination, and change lives. Thanks to these amazing young changemakers and a little help from Snoopy and Lulu, even more children will have the opportunity to experience that magic.