Ellsworth volunteers help promote literacy

  • Published
  • By Airman Hrair H. Palyan
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Airmen volunteers at Ellsworth took time out of their busy schedules to read to children attending the base Child Development Center March 2 to 9 as part of National Read Across America Month.

Read Across America began in 1997 to commemorate the birthday of children's author, Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss.

Airman 1st Class Leslie Hibbitts, 28th Contracting Squadron contract administrator, was one of several volunteers. She read "One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish," by Dr. Seuss to a group of 6-month-old children, March 2.

"Volunteering leaves me with a warm and fuzzy feeling," said Hibbitts. "It feels good to do something for the kids."

Hibbitts added that reading to the children was exciting because Dr. Seuss was one of her favorite authors when she was younger.

"My wife and I really enjoy volunteering and take advantage of any opportunity when we can," said Col. Mark Weatherington, 28th Bomb Wing commander. "It's an opportunity for Airmen to develop some skills, interact with people they probably wouldn't normally interact with, and give back in a way that makes a difference in other people's lives."

Susan Ratkovsky, Ellsworth Child Development Center director, said she was excited to see how many Airmen called in to volunteer and offer support to the CDC.

"The support the community gives is huge," said Ratkovsky. "It's nice that they volunteer their time for the kids and give our staff recognition."

The CDC is still looking for volunteers; anyone interested can call the CDC at 385-2488.