Henry Drummond once said, "You will find, as you look back on your life, that the moments that stand out are the moments when you have done things for others."
During this holiday season, as we give to family and friends, we must not forget children who are growing up in poverty, the homeless, and others who may not have the resources they need.
I was inspired when Academy Award winning actress Whoopi Goldberg took time out of her busy schedule to read to children at Bellevue Hospital. Her visit was part of Scholastic's One Million Bookprints for One Million Books campaign. Scholastic's new campaign invites readers of all ages to create a "Bookprint" at the online community, youarewhatyouread.com.
Scholastic is a partner of the early literacy initiative, Reach Out and Read, which has a site at Bellevue Hospital. As the CEO of Reach Out and Read, I was amazed when Whoopi Goldberg, an Oscar, Emmy, Tony and Grammy winner took time to read to our children -- and the impact she had on them and their parents.
This holiday season I challenge us as a nation to give to charities that expand the educational opportunities for children. Whether it's Reach Out and Read, Summer Advantage, Aim High, Higher Achievement Program, or your local library - we must commit to literary and academic support for the youngest members of our society.
If you can't afford to give, then read to a group of children or donate books to a local program. As Henry Drummond said, our most unforgettable moments occur when we give to others.
Best wishes for a wonderful holiday.