Name: Kim Norvell
Age: 31
Occupation: Reporter
Reading Site: Downtown School
How long you’ve read with EWI: 3 years
Q: Favorite book (and why!)
A: I loved the “Nancy Drew” series when I was younger for her creative
sleuthing that kept me engaged and absorbed in each edition. Maybe that’s why I love true crime today!
Q: Why do you volunteer with Everybody Wins! Iowa?
A: I volunteer with Everybody Wins! Iowa because not only do I have a passion for
reading, but I understand deeply how falling behind on those skills can impact a child’s
life well into the future. I find it a no-brainer to commit my time to helping students
broaden their skills and become more confident in front of a book. As a reporter, I want
to ensure our next generation of students is staying engaged and educated, and I think
working with students through Everybody Wins! Iowa is one small step in that direction.
Plus, it’s incredibly gratifying to watch your reading buddy become more engaged and
reach milestones over the year. Hearing my reading buddy confidently read out loud,
even if it’s just once a month, is all it takes to keep me coming back.
Q: With so many options for nonprofit or volunteer work in Central Iowa, what would you say to
someone considering joining Everybody Wins! Iowa and the Power Read program?
A: To me, the Power Read program is the easiest way to give back because it focuses on
things I love: reading and books. But it’s also one of the most accessible time commitments for volunteer work. I can go over my lunch break once a week and not
have to worry about conflicts in the evening. Some people may think it’s intimidating to
help a child learn to read – that they don’t have the proper teaching skills – but all it
really takes to make a difference is the commitment to be a consistent, positive role
model for your reading buddy.