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Debbie Johnson, volunteer reading partner in Tulsa, OK

Debbie was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013 and says, “when a person faces a life or death situation, their whole perspective about life changes.” After going through chemo and radiation, she is now cancer free and healthy, with a new desire to leave a legacy. When she learned about Reading Partners, she knew that helping a child learn to read was one way she could help a child develop the foundational skills they need to be successful.

“Many of these students have parents who work multiple jobs and don鈥檛 get the extra help they need. So as a reading partner, I鈥檓 like that 鈥榚xtended family鈥� that steps in and helps where I can,鈥� Debbie said.

Debbie鈥檚 favorite thing about Reading Partners is building a relationship with her student and knowing she excited to see her every day she comes to the reading center. She thinks that others should join Reading Partners because “it鈥檚 a very rewarding experience, and sometimes the kids do more to bless me than I help them.” Debbie said, 鈥淥ne day I know the kids I have worked with will go on to do great things. Because with Reading Partners’ help, they are able to get over those little hurdles holding them back.鈥�

Celebrate National Volunteer Week with Reading Partners! Share your story of volunteering on our website聽or use 聽on social media.

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