Atherton English students are brightening their communities by paying forward the gift of a story. Atherton’s National English Honors Society is working with national non-profit organization Operation Paperback, which sends books to overseas troops, veterans, and military families. The NEHS is collecting book donations, reporting their genres to this organization, who in turn give them addresses to send the various books to.
Reese McCarty (12), the President of the National English Honors Society, was inspired by her love of English to found this chapter, filling this notable vacancy in the National Honors Society.
“In the tense political atmosphere, access to high-quality literature is very important and coming from our background of relative privilege here at Atherton, we thought it was important to give back to those around us,” McCarty said.
NEHS members agree that they all knew a book drive was something they wanted to do, due to its great benefit to the community and the relative ease of participation from students that are willing to donate.
Andrew Sims (12), founding member of the NEHS, says Reese was looking for organizations to work with to have a place to send any donations they collected when they came across Operation Paperback.
“Reese found this organization that gives to people who are serving our country, have served our country, or are loved ones of people who have served,” Sims said. “It’s a small act to say thank you for doing what not many would be comfortable or even safe doing.”
Sims has always loved books and art. A few passions that drew him to the NEHS, but as an opportunity to hone his leadership skills as he pursues his goal of one day becoming an English teacher. Sims’ love for reading combined with this professional aspiration similarly motivated him in organizing this book drive.
“Reading has become a very important part of our lives, and I myself am fortunate enough to have read a lot of books that have changed me, so I would like to be a part of making change in the lives of others, even if it is something as small as the good feeling of having received a book when not expecting to,” Sims said.
McCarty explained that the NEHS will be collecting all books in good condition, giving special priority to books within the following genres: fantasy, mystery, historical fiction, realistic fiction.
“Any books that do not fall within the prioritized genres, such as children’s books, will still be donated to the Louisville Free Public Libraries, so all books will still be given back to the community,” McCarty said. “If you do not have any books you feel you can donate, donations of funds are still appreciated because we have to independently pay for all shipping costs.”
The book drive will be taking place throughout the month of April and the NEHS is hoping for a lot of donations.
“If you have any books you would be willing to part with, please consider sharing with us and giving back to the military community!” Sims said.
