NBC 5 and Telemundo 39 continued their mission to inspire young readers through their “Reading with Your Kids” program, hosting a special event at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas on Worth Street.
Around 200 children gathered in the club’s gym to learn that reading isn’t just a school task—it can also be a fun and rewarding adventure.
“It’s absolutely critical,” said John Zimmerman, a board member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas. “We want kids to learn to read, read to learn, and enjoy reading for fun.”
The event is part of an ongoing effort by NBC 5 and Telemundo 39 to fight learning loss, especially during summer break. Since 2019, the Reading with Your Kids program has given away hundreds of books across North Texas.
NBC 5 anchor Laura Harris launched the initiative after noticing how much academic ground children can lose during summer months.
“We go into communities and make sure kids have free books,” Harris said. “That way, when they return to school, they’re ready to keep learning—not start over.”
At the event, children also took part in creative activities like designing bookmarks and coloring pictures of their favorite NBC 5 reporters and anchors.
Ten-year-old Ivan Quinones said he’s been reading since he was five, especially Bible stories, inspired by his dad’s work at the church.
“I’m proud of my classmates,” Quinones said. “Seeing everyone enjoy reading makes me want to keep going. My goal is to read at least 20 minutes every day so I stay on track over the summer.”
Thanks to a $4,000 donation from corporate sponsor KPMG, each child took home two brand new books.
“For many kids, this is the first time they’ve owned a brand-new book,” said Harris. “We’re thrilled to help them discover the joy of reading.”
The program aims to ensure that the learning continues long after the school year ends—one book at a time.
