United to Read is an annual event, partnered with Black River United Way, that is held in first grade classrooms in Horry, Georgetown, and Williamsburg Counties. In the past, United Way of Horry County has recruited over 150 volunteers each year to read the same book to every first grade classroom in Horry County.
Due to COVID-19, this year’s event will be held virtually. Horry County’s own “Hometown Heroes” will be prerecording themselves reading this year’s title “Big Al” by Andrew Clements. “Big Al” teaches readers that the true value of friendship is not based on what someone looks like, but what type of person – or fish – they are on the inside. Each first grade classroom, whether in school or online, can choose who they would like to read the book. United to Read is an event that raises awareness of the importance of early literacy and celebrates reading!
This year’s Hometown Hero readers include:
- WPDE Head Meteorologist Ed Piotrowski
- Former Olympian Amber Campbell
- A Medieval Times’ Knight
- Splash from the Myrtle Beach Pelicans
- Chauncey from Coastal Carolina University
- A Coastal Carolina University Basketball Player
- WMBF Morning Show Host Audrey Biesk
- Jarrett Wallace from the Conway Fire Department
- A Myrtle Beach Police Officer
More readers to be announced!
All videos and materials will be available via Google Slides. For questions please contact Jentry Ward, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, via email jentry@unitedwayhorry.org or by phone 843-347-5195 ext 3.
