Last Words on Literacy

When I began this journey, I set out to inform as many people as possible on the importance of literacy.  Whether it was though reading a story at a local elementary school, donating books, or connecting an group of concerned parents to a literacy organization, I wanted to encourage, empower and educate the world on the importance of literacy.  I was raised to know and understand that education is power, and at its core is literacy.   It is with this belief that I sought to give others access to the power that so many of us take for granted.  The power to read is not just the power to pick up a book and understand its contents.  It is the power to pick up a newspaper and understand the world we live in.  To read a congressional bill and understand how it impacts you.  It is the power to read and understand a lease, so that you can make sure that your home is safe for your children.  Or in some cases to read a court document and understand your rights. 

The power to read has transformed societies, one person at a time.  Indeed, Literacy impacts us all.  I hope that I have conveyed that message to everyone that has read my blogs, I have met, read to, or even autographed a picture for.  Just Read, Fighting Illiteracy Starts With Your First Book- is not just my platform, it is my mantra and a personal mission.   As my time as Miss International winds down I am excited to enter the next phase of advocacy.  My work has just begun. 

Best,

Ciji Dodds
Miss International (for a few more days)

Overcoming Family Illiteracy

Admittedly, I have placed a lot of emphasis on childhood illiteracy.  One issue that I haven’t addressed in depth is what happens when both parent and child are illiterate?  This presents a special challenge because parents are often ashamed of admitting to their children that they can’t read.  What would you do if your child asked you to read her a book and you couldn’t?  The solution isn’t easy but there are some ways that both child and parent can overcome illiteracy.  Literacy advocates can do the following:

1. Encourage parents to attend their child’s tutoring lessons:  By “tagging along” it has been shown that parents are at first passively engaged, then over time, they become more engaged.  This makes them want to enhance their own skill and seek out adult literacy programs.  A lot of literacy tutoring programs also have an adult component, so that parent and child can learn to read at different times, but in different settings.

2.Make sure there are books within the home:  The mission of First Book and Reach Out and Read is to make sure that children have access to books in their homes.  By doing so, parents also have access to books.  When a child practices reading to their parent, the parent is also presented with a learning opportunity.

3.Promote family literacy:  There is a great emphasis on childhood illiteracy, but parents sometimes fell left by the wayside.  By encouraging the entire family to take part in the process, literacy advocates cam make an impact on the literacy of the entire family.

Best,

Ciji Dodds
Miss International 2011

Summer Reading!

The end of the school year does not have to mean the end of reading.  All too often, children lose literacy skills gained throughout the year during the summer.  But studies have consistently shown that summer reading is critical to maintaining literacy skills and building new ones.  The Washington Post just published a great article with tips on how to make summer reading fun.  Here are just a few.

1. Blog about it!:  Blogging is a great way to integrate technology and reading.  Encourage your child to create a blog and post weekly reviews of the books that they have read.  It will help their critical thinking skills because not only will they have to read and summarize, they will also have to analyze and respond to posts.

2. Re-write a story:  Encourage your child to adapt a story and make it their own.  By changing the plot line and characters, children become better writers.  For example, take Little Red Riding Hood and add a modern twist.  Put her in present day D.C. and watch the fun begin!

3. Act it out!:  Encourage your child to turn their favorite book into a play.  The process of playwriting helps them develop multiple literacy and critical thinking skills.

These are just a few.  For more, check out  http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/answer-sheet/post/how-to-get-kids-reading-and-writing-over-the-summer/2012/07/03/gJQADjOgKW_blog.html

Best,

Ciji Dodds
Miss International

First Book in Cincinnati!

First Book is continuing its mission of providing children brand new books.  Recently, First book has partnered with Cincinnati public schools.  First Book has committed to providing books for the 3,000 children who are enrolled in the summer program!  Each child will receive three brand new books.  This program comes as the result of a new partnership with the American Federation of Teachers. 

Partnerships such as these allow First Book to expand its reach and have a greater impact.  Studies have shown that during the summer, some children lose the skills that they have acquired during the school year.  By providing children with books, they are provided with an added incentive to read.  This ultimately impacts their ability to maintain their literacy skills during the summer months.  If you’re interested in partnering with First Book to receive books for your school or program, go to  http://www.firstbook.org/contact-us

Happy Reading!

Ciji Dodds
Miss International 2011

Tech Savvy Tots Change the Way Teachers Approach Literacy

A couple of months ago, I babysat a 4 year old.  She was smart, spunky, full of energy and… tech savvy.    Growing up in a world of smart phones, using an iPhone was second nature.  I was amazed at how easily she navigated my iPad.  Touching and sliding, her tiny fingers flipped through images with ease, much more ease than even the largest board book.  She had never known a world where you couldn’t manipulate a screen by touching it, so imagine her dismay when she touched my laptop screen and it didn’t budge.

She represents the new generation of learning.  Teachers have increasingly implemented tools such as iPads, to teach children how to read.  A recent study showed that the use of such tools helped children under the age of 5 learn to read faster because they were significantly more engaged in the process.  A brightly screened tablet that can be easily manipulated with the touch of a finger, has proven successful at keeping even the most energetic learners focused.  This is just one tool in our tool kits that we can use to make sure every child learns to read.

Best,

Ciji Dodds

Miss International 2011

Miss International Leaves Her Bookprint in Haiti - Part 2

A Billboard that I was featured on throughout Port au Prince!

It was soon time to leave Cap-Haitien. We said our goodbyes and returned to Port au Prince. My mission was not complete as there was still another orphanage that I needed to visit. Encouraged by my first visit, I was excited for this one. However, I was unprepared for what awaited me. When we arrived at our destination, I immediately noticed a difference. Being in the capital and largest city, this orphanage’s resources were stretched particularly thin. After asking a few questions to figure out how they operated, I learned that the government doesn’t provide any funding for orphanages. Orphanages are entirely dependent upon donations. 

Sobered by reality, yet emboldened by my mission, me and my pink suitcase were ready. We went through the gate and were greeted once again by smiling inquisitive faces. To have so little and yet be so grateful is truly amazing. We started off by asking one of the girls to read the Three Little Pigs to everyone. She was excited to be the center of attention! Then I shared one of my favorites!

The school supplies were given to the teachers for use throughout the year. Each child received one age appropriate book. The remainder of the books were given to the teachers to establish a library. The idea being that once a child gets tired of their book, they can trade it in for a different one. My hope is that this small library, which I am committed to adding to each year, will encourage them to keep reading and will improve their literacy skills.

 

The path leading to the orphanage

The Magic Pink Luggage!

The children circled up for story time

The best rendition of The Three Little Pigs that I have ever heard!

Sharing my favorite children’s books!  Apparently Green Eggs and Ham is global,  as soon as I took it out, all of the adults said it was their favorite too!

Sharing my favorite children’s books!  Apparently Green Eggs and Ham is global,  as soon as I took it out, all of the adults said it was their favorite too!

This was indeed the trip of a lifetime!!

Ciji Dodds

Miss International 2011

Miss International Leaves Her Bookprint in Haiti - Part 1

The entire reason that I took this trip was to ensure that my platform, Just Read-Fighting Illiteracy Starts With Your First Book, had a truly global impact. It is no secret that literacy is the gateway to a brighter future and is essential to breaking the cycle of poverty. Many countries struggle with the task of educating their population. This is true in Haiti and has taken on a new dimension since the earthquake. The earthquake ravaged the country in more ways than one, but children were especially impacted. Thousands of children were orphaned and orphanages have struggled to care for and educate these children.

While in Cap-Haitien, I visited one such orphanage. When I walked through the door I didn’t know what to expect, but I was immediately greeted by smiling faces. When we told them that I was there to give out books they were ecstatic. Coincidentally, my traveling companion Alejandra Barillas had brought back packs! It was the perfect combination.

Living in an orphanage, you have to share everything. Very rarely do you have something that is yours and yours alone. I wanted to give them something that they could call their own and at the same time, hopefully, spark a lifelong desire to learn. Here are a few pictures.

Alejandra distributed the back packs first, that way, the kids would have something to store their books in right away.

Before I distributed the books, we asked one of the children to read a story from one of them.

I don’t know who was happier me or the kids!

Mission Accomplished!!

A very special thank you to Anedie Azael for coordinating with the orphanage to make this all possible!

Best,


Ciji Dodds
Miss International 2011

My Journey Continues!!

I woke up to the sound of waves crashing against the shore…I can’t think of  a better alarm clock.  We ate a spectacular breakfast consisting of fresh fruits, omelets, pancakes, toast and grapefruit jam…Yes grapefruit jam!  If you’ve never had it, you don’t know what you are missing. 

Then I was told that we were boarding a yacht and touring the northern tip of Haiti!! You’ve got to be kidding!! I thought to myself. But no, this was real. We ate up, slathered on sunscreen, and headed out.

Our yacht for the day!

I was ready for fun in the sun!!

The scenery during our tour was breathtaking!

We anchored on a sandbar, hopped off and waded to the shore to spend some time on the beach!

Once we returned, we took a quick nap and ate dinner. Then it was time to go judge one of the Preliminaries for the Miss Haiti Tourism Pageant.    Right before we went to the pageant, we took a moment to tour the Cathedral of Cap-Hatien! 

It was Beautiful!!!

Cobblestones and my favorite Tory Burch heels didn’t mix!!

We were celebrity guest judges at the pageant.   I had a blast!!!  The entertainment was Amazing!!

The competition was stiff - but the top three ladies were chosen!!

Au revoir!!!

Ciji Dodds

Miss International 2011

The Journey of a Lifetime Begins!!

My trip to Haiti began at 4 a.m. on April 25.  I had to get up super early to make sure I’d checked off all the items on my packing list, printed my itinerary and completed online check in.   4 suitcases later…. 2 of which were filled with books and supplies…  I was at Reagan National Airport saying my goodbyes and preparing to embark on a life-changing journey!    As soon as I got out of the car the attendant noticed my pink luggage and said “what’s in there, make-up?”  I replied, “Nope, books and school supplies for kids in Haiti.”  He was stunned and I think a little embarrassed.  He immediately pushed me to the front of the line and upgraded my ticket to first class so that I wouldn’t have to pay additional baggage fees!!  I was shocked and grateful!  This trip was getting off on the right foot! 

I flew into Miami and a 45 minute layover later, I was on a flight to Port-au-Prince, Haiti.  I could immediately tell once the flight attendant began giving instructions in French.    For the first time, it began to sink in.  The flight was short and as we approached Haiti I was in awe of its beauty.  Mountains and beaches like I had never seen before!  As we landed, I began to get more and more excited. 

While on the plane, I met one of my traveling companions,  (and now one of my friends) Shakira Martin.  This was her second trip to Haiti so she was quick to show me the ropes.  As soon as we got through customs we were greeted by Rachel Azael,  Anedie Azael (our host),Alejandra Barrillas, and Marlyn Rivas.  We were quite the party!!    We were then whisked through customs and all of our bags were ready to go.   This wasn’t my last flight of the day…

I was told that we would be flying on a tiny plane to Cap-Hatien, which is in northern Haiti.  I’d been on small planes before, but nothing like this!  I was terrified.   But, I put on my big girl crown and hopped in. The ride wasn’t that bad at all!!

As soon as we landed we were greeted by the Ministry of Tourism.

They picked the perfect representatives to greet us!! Tiny prima ballerinas from a local dance school! We were greeted with a song and flowers!

Then we headed to Hotel Cormier Plage, one of the most beautiful hotels that I have ever been in.  We spent the rest of the evening resting up for the next day’s adventure!

Best,

Ciji Dodds 

Miss International 2011

KinderCare and Reach Out and Read Join Forces

April is the Month of the Military Child. In celebration of the Month of the Military Child and as a token of its appreciation for military children, KinderCare has donated 10,000 books through Reach Out and Read’s network. This is yet another display of KinderCare’s generosity. In 2011, KinderCare donated 15,000 books through Reach Out and Read’s network. Way to honor our nation’s military children!

KinderCare centers are located throughout the nation. Throughout KinderCare’s existence, it has established a reputation for providing high quality care and education to children. KinderCare has a special relationship to military children because nearly 600 of its centers are located within 10 to 15 miles of military bases. In addition to working with Reach Out and Read, KinderCare has also partnered with the National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA) to support “Operation Military Child Care” and “Military Child Care in Your Neighborhood” programs. KinderCare’s commitment to early childhood education and especially to serving the military community is admirable and honorable!

Best,

Ciji Dodds
Miss International 2011

Countdown Until Haiti!

There is one week left until I embark upon the trip of a lifetime. The Richardsons have blessed me with an amazing opportunity to promote my platform and I intend to use it to the fullest! I have been overwhelmed with the generosity that so many of you have and continue to display. From the bottom of my heart, Thank You! But, our work is not yet done, I’m making a final push for donations and I hope that you all can help.

I am still accepting, books, pens, pencils, crayons, notebook paper and spiral notebooks. If you are interested you can mail them to P.O. Box 421, Laurel, Maryland, 20725-0421; c/o Madison Donovan Group. If you are close to Maryland, I will be more than happy to come pick them up. I will also be holding an in-person collection where you can drop off donations on Saturday, April 22 from 11 a.m.– 1 p.m. at 401 Main Street Laurel, Maryland 20707. Companies or individuals who are interested in donating towards or sponsoring costs associated with shipping and preparation should contact the Madison Donovan Group at- http://www.madisondonovangroup.com/#!contact

Best,

Ciji Dodds
Miss International 2011

It's Not Too Late to DONATE!

With my trip to Haiti only a few weeks away, I am still accepting donations. What type of donations you might ask? Well, I am accepting children’s books in English and French. I am also accepting school supplies such as loose leaf paper, spiral notebooks, pens, pencils, crayons, and construction paper. What may seem like something small to us, will make a hug difference. Schools and orphanages are in dire need of supplies. Gift cards to stores such as Target and Wal-Mart are also welcome. Lastly, I am also in need of shipping sponsors. So if you can’t donate supplies, but would like to contribute to the cost of shipping, that would be awesome as well! Anything that you can contribute will be greatly appreciated.

Once I return, I will be doing something special for all of my sponsors to show my gratitude. If you are interested in donating, or have any questions, feel free to message me via facebook. All supplies and/or gift cards can be mailed to P.O. Box 421, Laurel, Maryland, 20725-0421; c/o Madison Donovan Group. I will also be holding an in-person collection where you can drop off donations on Saturday, April 22 from 11 a.m.– 1 p.m. at 401 Main Street Laurel, Maryland 20707. Companies or individuals who are interested in donating towards or sponsoring costs associated with shipping and preparation should contact the Madison Donovan Group at- http://www.madisondonovangroup.com/#!contact

As always, thanks a ton for supporting me throughout my reign!

Best,
 
Ciji Dodds
Miss International 2011

First Book Receives Top Ranking!

First Book has doggedly pursued its mission of providing brand new books to children of limited economic means. Charity Navigator has taken notice and given First Book a four star ranking, its highest ranking! Charity Navigator is America’s premier charity evaluator. Its mission is to serve as a guide to intelligent giving. By evaluating charities, Charity Navigator helps identify exceptional charities and gives people the confidence to continue giving.

Charities are evaluated according to their financial health, accountability and transparency. By analyzing these factors, Charity Navigator can pinpoint how money is used. Efficient, transparent charities receive a high ranking. If you want to see how your charity ranks, check out http://www.charitynavigator.org/. Now that I know about Charity Navigator, I will be sure to take a gander the next time I want to make a charitable contribution.

Best,

Ciji Dodds
Miss International 2011

Fundraising for Haiti

I have a confession.  I’m the kid in school who sold the bare minimum number of candy bars.  If you wanted to  win the class pizza party for most candy bars sold…you had better hope you weren’t in my class.  I’ve always struggled with fundraising for two reasons.  The first one being, I don’t like to feel like I’m bugging people. The second one being, I don’t like hearing the word no.   I guess you could say I have a fundraising phobia.  

Well, as a titleholder I’ve had to get over that quick.  As I continue to seek donations for my trip to Haiti, I’ve heard the word no more than I can count.  But, I have also heard the word yes just enough times to keep me motivated.   So…I’m still seeking donations of books and school supplies.  If you are interested you can mail them to  P.O. Box 421,  Laurel, Maryland, 20725-0421;  c/o Madison Donovan Group.  I will also be holding an in-person collection where you can drop off donations on Saturday, April 22 from 11 a.m.– 1 p.m. at 401 Main Street Laurel, Maryland 20707.  Companies or individuals who are interested in donating towards or sponsoring costs associated with shipping and preparation should contact the Madison Donovan Group at- http://www.madisondonovangroup.com/#!contact

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Best,

Ciji Dodds

Miss International 2011

Miss International Goes to Haiti!

When the opportunity of a lifetime presents itself, you owe it to yourself to go for it!  When I was told that there was a chance for me to go on a philanthropic trip to Haiti, I knew immediately that this was one of those life changing moments.  Needless to say, without any hesitation at all, I went for it.  From April 25 through May 2, I will be traveling throughout the country of Haiti.    The trip is in connection with Peace Love International- R.E.S.T.O.R.E. Haiti. 

Haiti is a country with a rich history and a resilient spirit like no other.  I feel so privileged to be afforded the opportunity to meet the people of Haiti and explore their culture.  I hope to share a bit of myself and leave my Bookprint.  Prior to my departure, I will be collecting French and English children’s books as well as school supplies.  These books will be donated to children at various orphanages and schools throughout Haiti.  I’ve kicked off my drive and am currently working with several churches and charities to make my dream a reality.  My title has opened this door for me, and I fully intend to walk through and make an impact the best way that I know how- service.  The adage is true, "People may not remember exactly what you did, or what you said, but they will always remember how you made them feel."               

Anyone who is interested in donating can ship items to  P.O. Box 421,  Laurel, Maryland, 20725-0421;  c/o Madison Donovan Group.  I will also be holding an in-person collection where you can drop off donations on Saturday, April 22 from 11 a.m.– 1 p.m. at 401 Main Street Laurel, Maryland 20707.  Companies or individuals who are  interested in donating towards or sponsoring costs associated with shipping and preparation should contact the Madison Donovan Group at- http://www.madisondonovangroup.com/#!contact 

I can’t wait to share the journey of a lifetime with all of you!

Best,

Ciji Dodds

Miss International 2011

Making Literacy a Family Affair

Nothing can take the place of a strong family structure.  Your parents are your first teachers.  It’s no wonder that when the entire family embraces literacy, the children are more likely to be successful.  There are many ways for the entire family to get involved.  The key is to be consistent and to have fun.   Here is a couple.

Make reading time fun time.  Reading is a treat.  By reading with your family you can enjoy quality time and help your children.  Also, by keeping track of the books that you read as family, you can chart your family’s progress.  Books are also good way to discover your children’s interests.  Another way is to incorporate word games into family fun time.  A lot of families have game nights.  A quick game of scrabble is fun and educational at the same time. It can increase children’s vocabulary and help them become faster readers.

Best,

Ciji Dodds

Miss International 2011

Library of Congress Main Reading Room Open House

In honor of President’s Day, I was invited to attend the Library of Congress’ Main Reading Room Open House!  The Library of Congress opens the doors of the Main Reading Room to the public only twice a year.  It was a privilege and honor to take part in such a special day.  I read the book, Duck for President to an attentive and interactive group of students who were enjoying their day off from school.  I toured the library and learned about everything it has to offer.

The Main Reading Room is absolutely Majestic! You have to see it for yourself!

Picking a book was quite the task.

Reading Duck for President to a wonderful group of patrons.

Meeting the guests

The Card Catalogue!  When was the last time you used one of these?

Ciji Dodds

Miss International 2011

First Book Rocks 2011!

First Book has been a little busy… That may be the understatement of the year!  First Book has been very busy spreading the message of the importance of literacy and pursuing its mission of ensuring that all children have access to high quality reading materials.  First Book has fostered new relationships and strengthened existing relationships.  But most importantly, First Book has put a dent in the greatest barrier to literacy, access to books.

During 2011, First Book Distributed 8 Million Books!  But it doesn’t stop there!  First Book added 7,000 new schools and programs to its national network.  This  means  that 7,000  additional schools  and programs are now eligible for grants and have access to First Book’s Book Bank where they can buy brand new books at a fraction of the price, $2.50.   First Book also started local volunteer chapters (First Book Advisory Boards) in over a dozen communities. I can’t wait to see what 2012 brings!

Best,

Ciji Dodds

Miss International 2011

Give the Gift of Literacy!

Trying to figure out what to give this holiday season?  Give the gift of literacy.  Here are a few special literacy initiatives for the holidays.  

• First Book:  From now until December 31, 2011, for every 1 dollar you donate to First Book, Disney Publishing has graciously agreed to donate 1 new book to a child in need! 
• Build-A-Bear Workshop:  Are you purchasing a Build –A- Bear?  Build-A-Bear will donate 50 cents to First Book for every Read Teddy they sell this Christmas season.
• Barnes and Noble Holiday Book Drive:  Barnes and Noble is holding a holiday book drive.  Upon checkout, you will be asked whether you would like to donate a book.  Books will benefit various literacy organizations.
• Philosophy:  Are you a fan of philosophy’s fantastic bath and shower products.  Well, philosophy is donating 100% of the net proceeds from all sales of their Sweet
  Dreams Fresh Cream shampoo, shower gel & bubble bath to First Book.
• Better World Books:  Every time you purchase a book, Better World Books donates a book to a child in need.  http://www.betterworldbooks.com/go/book-for-book
• I See Me!:  I See Me makes personalized books for kids, featuring their names and images.  A personalized book is a great gift idea for a child of any age.  When you check out, if you enter “firstbook” as a coupon code, they’ll will donate 10% of sales to First Book and plus you will get 10% off your order.
• Reach Out and Read:  ROR is holding a special Holiday Book Drive.  Click on the link to donate!   https://www.reachoutandread.org/supporters/contribute/donation.aspx

Happy Holidays!

Ciji Dodds