Name: Rachel Simon
Age: 29
Occupation: Communications Coordinator for the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART)
Reading site: Edmunds Elementary
How long you’ve read with EWI: 3 years
Favorite book (and why!): I don’t know that I can pick just one. Growing up I loved to read Harry Potter and I still enjoy re-reading the series. My favorite children’s book is also Peter Pan, so I guess you can say I like reading magical stories!
Q: Why do you volunteer with Everybody Wins! Iowa?
A: I have had a lifelong love of reading, but I remember having friends growing up who struggled and gave up because they didn’t think reading was cool. Reading opens worlds I could have never imagined, and has led me to a career that I love. Volunteering with EWI helps me to build a love of reading in a new generation, and hopefully helps to set them up for success later in life.
Q: What changes have you seen in your student reader as you work together in the Power Read program?
A: I have had the unique experience to read with brothers. For the first two years with the program my student learned to love to read and I loved watching him become a more confident reader. Now this year I get the chance to read to my old student’s younger brother and I’m loving going through the process all over again.