Let’s Read. Let’s Move!

On Tuesday, June 29, the Department of Education (Arne Duncan) in combination with Michelle Obama kicked off the summer enrichment series “Let’s Read. Let’s Move.”

The purpose of this initiative is to prevent learning loss and physical inactivity, which many children face during the summer break from school. Often, children in certain locales only read or exercise during the school year. The activities of “Let’s Read. Let’s Move” will promote reading and academia, healthy life and physical choices for children, as well as an overall enrichment.

The kick off event, hosted in Washington, was made up of book readings, writing and arts activities, healthy snacks, and games. Secretary Duncan, Cabinet members, Administration officials, and other public figures were encouraged to participate with the children by reading books and participating in games and fitness.

The ‘Hands On Network’ is a blog/database for volunteer opportunities. For this particular volunteer event, the website chose to promote it. The article lists the facts about the enrichment series such as who in the administration is behind it, what the overarching purpose of the series is, and what the three main goals are.
After the main entry, there are sections of tools and references for people who might be interested in getting involved. Also, the site offers links to share information and continue to get out the word on the program.

The Corporation for National & Community Service promoted the United We Serve: “Let’s Read. Let’s Move” Summer Initiative. This website is sponsored by Serve.gov, the official government website promoting service. The article, listed under “Stories of Service,” includes a description of the events, and testimony from various people who stepped up to the challenge of summer reading and found it rewarding.

The article offers a personal testimony from a woman who claims reading was forced upon her in school and it wasn’t something she chose to do on her own, and that this program has helped her enjoy reading. The woman is also quoted saying her life is better now that she can read.

It is important to note these kinds of testimonials in the article, because it presents this summer enrichment series in a positive light and reinforces its effectiveness. The purpose of the web site is to promote volunteering. It would be hardly effective if the site posted anything about a service opportunity that was not enlightening.

Promoting and supporting this campaign, which is sponsored by Michele Obama and Arne Duncan, subjectively supports the government and our president. When people read this article they will think highly and positively about the administration.