Dear Friends of Ethiopia Reads,
It is my great honor to be named a CNN Hero of the Year, especially among such a wonderful group of people working hard to make a difference in the world. This nomination has led new friends to discover the work of Ethiopia Reads, and it is deeply gratifying to know that so many want to help us bring books to the children of Ethiopia. I truly believe that literacy is the key to unlocking the potential of thousands of boys and girls who are eager to learn and experience the joy of reading. Though the spotlight now shines on me, none of this would be possible without you.
Over the past month, I’ve traveled the country meeting with volunteers and supporters from every walk of life who share my committment to changing the future of Ethiopia, one book at a time. I’ve been especially touched by the children I’ve met in schools and libraries who care so much about children across the world.Last week at Arrowwood Elementary School in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, I met a little girl named Sarah who donated $1 to buy a book for a child in Ethiopia. This morning in Albuquerque, New Mexico, I had the chance to thank Tobyn Pulice, a nine-year-old boy who inspired his school to plant a library for kids in Addis Ababa. Sarah and Tobyn are my heroes. So are the hundreds of people who support our work by organizing book sales, holding car washes and penny drives, and sharing the message of Ethiopia Reads with their communities and churches, schools and synagogues, book clubs and civic groups.
Please help me honor the work of these heroes with your vote. A vote for me is a vote for Ethiopia Reads, a vote for literacy, a vote for books, a vote for positive change in Ethiopia.
If you have already voted, I thank you — and I respectfully ask you to vote again. Today is the last full day for voting, so please vote now.
http://heroes.cnn.com/
Voting ends on Thursday, November 20 at 6 am.
Visit www.ethiopiareads.org to learn more and make a donation.
Thank you for all that you do and have done to support Ethiopia Reads, with your heart, your energy, your support, and now, your vote.
