United Way volunteers read to children in Guilford

GUILFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — This is the United Way of Greater New Haven’s Week of Caring.

The latest event brought more than a dozen volunteers to Guilford Lakes Elementary School to read to young students. Organizers said it is important to show students that their community supports them.

“Our students love having readers come in,” first grade teacher Marissa Capasso said. “All students love to be read to. So, this is a great way to bring the community in and have them get into our school in a positive way.”

Among the volunteers was Guilford First Selectman Matt Hooey (D), who knows the benefits of a lifetime love of reading.

“When I was a kid, I would take a flashlight to bed so I could continue to read after it was lights out,” Hooey said. “To this day, there is still a book on my nightstand.”

Nicholas Crociati, a junior at Quinnipiac University, wanted to give back.

“I just remember when I was a kid having volunteers come and read to me, and that was one of the most heartfelt moments when I was a kid,” he said. “So, I just wanted to relay the message to the youth now.”

Crociati also remembered the learning gap created by the pandemic while he was in high school. Students in many grades are still struggling to catch up.

“It’s very important to have events like this just to get students excited about reading again and let them know that the community is here to help them and guide them through the formative years of school,” said Dennis Velasquez, the volunteer manager for the United Way of Greater New Haven.

The United Way is always looking for volunteers. More information is available online.

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