Giving Thanks for 60 Years of Impact and a Future of Possibility
This Thanksgiving, I find myself reflecting on lasting legacies and the impact that continues to grow from them. As Reading Is Fundamental celebrates 60 years, I am grateful for the people whose vision started this work, the community that has carried it forward, and the millions of children whose lives have been touched along the way. This photograph brings that legacy to life. Margy Pastor, daughter of our founder Margaret McNamara, and Lynda Johnson Robb, one of our founding board members, joined us to celebrate our anniversary exactly the way RIF began: by creating joy through reading with a new generation of RIF Kids.
Sixty years ago, Margaret McNamara recognized what a book could mean to a child. The opportunity to choose one, bring it home, and call it your own could spark curiosity, build confidence, and open a world of possibilities. Across six decades, millions of children have become part of that story. Many still tell us about their RIF books and the excitement of knowing those books belonged to them. I remain deeply moved by those stories and grateful for everyone who makes the next one possible. Our educators, volunteers, donors, partners, families, and staff have sustained a commitment that connects generations.
Our future grows from that commitment. We will continue bringing books and reading experiences into schools, homes, and communities, expanding opportunities through tools like Skybrary, and learning from the children and adults we serve. There are still so many children waiting to discover the joy, confidence, and possibilities reading can bring. When I look at this photograph, I wonder what these children will remember. I hope they remember feeling celebrated and discovering something that made them curious. Perhaps, years from now, they will tell someone, “I was a RIF Kid.”
Thank you for 60 years of impact and for helping shape the futures ahead. From all of us at Reading Is Fundamental, Happy Thanksgiving.
Alicia
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