In February of this year, Bindiya, a mother of four sons in South Jamaica, Queens completed her training to become a LINC Very Involved Parent (VIP). While her sons (ages 7, 5, 3, and 7 months) are what initially motivated her to attend LINC programs beginning in 2022, her journey has led her to become a notable literacy advocate in her community.
“Children love when their parents show up and are there for them. That was one of my main goals for becoming a VIP,” she says. “But as a VIP, I also contribute to the goal of creating a culture of literacy in my neighborhood, so all children can have a fair chance at unlocking a brighter future.”
Though she loves spending time with young children, Bindiya was initially shy. “I wouldn’t speak in front of anyone. But now, I’m so determined and passionate when I volunteer,” she shares. “My children are so proud of me. When my 3-year-old sees me he says, ‘that’s my mommy!’”
She can already see that literacy is transforming her children, too - and she is empowered by the knowledge that she is driving that change. “My children love books now. They love to read stories. I feel like I’m the reason for that, because I started reading more to them.”
Bindiya regularly recruits new families to join LINC’s programs. Parents are inspired by her dedication when they see her helping out, along with her infant son in tow. “I am always going to show up and support LINC because they’re doing an amazing job,” Bindiya says. “I’m so glad I became a VIP. It makes me feel so proud. It’s an amazing feeling.”
Now more than ever, we need this kind of sustainable – and sustaining – change in our communities. By supporting LINC, you are both equipping children to succeed and providing the adults around them, like Bindiya with the knowledge and skills to continually guide them.
Literacy is not merely reading words on a page; it is comprehending the world, finding your voice, and becoming an active participant. The power of literacy ripples through families, elevates communities, and strengthens the fabric of our entire society.
Thank you for being a part of our community, and for believing as we do in the transformative power of literacy.
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