Ruweyda's Team Read Fundraiser

Hello, 

    My name is Ruweyda Abdullahi, and I’m a freshman at Foster High School. Being a Team Read coach is my first real job. I wanted to join Team Read to gain early work experience and build new skills. At first, I thought it would be easy, just like an after-school club, but from the very first day, I realized it is so much more than that.

    Growing up, I was used to helping my younger siblings and cousins with schoolwork. I thought that what worked for one would work for all. Team Read taught me that every child learns differently, and it is important to adjust how you teach depending on what they need.

    Originally, the student I was assigned to dropped out before I could start working with them. I coached a few different readers before I got my current student. At first, she did not seem to like me much, and honestly, it hurt. But instead of giving up, I found ways to make our sessions fun, like offering stickers or snacks as little rewards for doing well. Slowly, it stopped feeling like a chore and started feeling really good when I saw her open up and trust me.

    A moment that stuck with me was when she told me I was her favorite coach after a tough day. It reminded me of how each session not only builds her reading skills, but also her relationship with me as her coach.

    Team Read deserves funding because it changes lives, for the readers and for the coaches. It helps younger kids grow their skills and confidence, while giving teens real-life experience, responsibility, and a chance to make a difference.

Kindly,

Ruweyda