MLK Day Read-In
By: Avery Donaldson (’26)
On Saturday, January 25, 2025, Wake Forest University partnered with Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) and HandsOn NWNC to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through the annual MLK Read-In. This event brings local children to campus for a day of literacy-focused activities that celebrate Dr. King’s message of equality, education, and community service.
This year, 63 elementary school children – from kindergarten through fifth grade – were paired with Reading Buddies, who guided them through interactive stations designed to inspire learning. At the Honda Jet station, volunteers helped children craft model airplanes and write their dreams on the wings. Another station featured coloring sheets of civil rights leaders like Rosa Parks, Dr. Maulana Karenga, and Jackie Robinson, where volunteers shared their stories and impact.
A new activity station, hosted by WSSU’s Hispanic Organization and Latin Association (HOLA), introduced children to the migration journey of monarch butterflies, drawing connections to the resilience of the small insects and how far they travel each year.
Each child received two books – one age-appropriate selection and one civil rights-themed book, curated with recommendations from Bookmarks, a local independent bookstore. After completing all stations, children and their Reading Buddies sat down to explore their new books together.
Planning for the Read-In began in October, with organizers developing activities, recruiting volunteers and families, and coordinating logistics. The event was made possible by 109 volunteers, including Wake Forest and WSSU students and staff, along with local community members, contributing more than 300 hours of service.
“The MLK Day Read-In allows WFU and WSSU students to get to know each other and give back to the community during this memorable event,” said Cazandra Rebollar, the assistant director of civic engagement at Wake Forest University, who was part of the planning team. “The children that come to campus are always thrilled to meet college students and experience what college could be like. We try to make learning fun and encourage a love of reading that will carry them beyond their participation in the event.”