The School Readiness Council and Bristol Early Childhood Alliance have had a busy summer “Making Bristol Better.” Volunteers from the community organization have been finding creative ways to encourage children to read every day.

BECA Coordinator Donna Koser said that the group’s summer initiative, “Making Bristol Better” will be holding several events this summer, including adoption events providing children with the opportunity to adopt a stuffed animal reading buddy.

“We’re holding adoption events throughout the summer. Kids can come pick out their own reading buddies and a book, with the promise that they’ll read to their buddies 20 minutes a day.”

Koser said that over 100 children visited their booth at the Farmer’s Market on July 23 to adopt a reading buddy.

“We had a lot of kids say that they can’t wait to go home to read, and we’re all happy about that. We want to see every single child excited about reading.”

In addition to the Farmer’s Market, “Making Bristol Better” volunteers can be found at the Rockin’ Out at Rockwell Summer Concert series on Tuesday evenings. The group will return to the park this Sunday to host their first “Walk & Talk” event.  Parent Ambassador Jennifer St. John said that the event will provide a safe space for parents looking to connect with others.

“It’s a great chance to connect with other parents and caregivers, ask questions, and enjoy the beautiful park. Come walk with us!”

The “Walk & Talk” event will take place on Sunday, July 31 at 3 p.m. at Rockwell Park. In the event of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled for Thursday, August 11 at 6 p.m.

For more information, visit https://www.makingbristolbetter.com/