National nonprofit Learning Ally is powered by a remarkable workforce of over 5,000 volunteers — a diverse group of young professionals and accomplished retirees who flock to the organization’s 19 audiobook recording studios across the U.S. to bring books to life for students with visual and learning disabilities. What keeps them coming back each week? In this video, a dozen Learning Ally volunteers — from Palo Alto, Chicago, and Boston — describe what inspires them to donate their voices, talents and time to Learning Ally’s mission.
Leslie and Nay Nay on photo shoot for Learning Ally. Leslie using iPad app enabling kids with dyslexia to enjoy reading. Thanks to Learning Ally mom Lisa H. in Maryland for hosting the shoot.
“If I couldn’t read, I would quite likely end up listening to books.
I cannot be without a beautiful strain of words, one right after
another. I would miss it terribly.”
- Anne Tibbets, Learning Ally Author for Access, recently visited the Los Angeles studio to record her latest book, Shut Up. Read what she had to say about Learning Ally and listen to her advice for young writers.
Reporter Erika Flores visited Learning Ally’s Los Angeles studio today to tell our story on Univision 34-TV, the largest Spanish speaking station in the country. Erika interviewed member Henry Vasquez, Jr. (shown upper right with camera) Henry was blinded at age 19 from an accident, and says that Learning Ally gave him his life back. He is now a counselor for drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Bottom: Erika (center) with bilingual volunteers Pippa Phillips and Tony Castanares, who served as brilliant spokespeople and advocates during the station’s interviews.
Record-A-Thon celebrated the “Different Ways to Read Across America” today in honor of the birthday of beloved Dr. Seuss! Upper left to lower right: Louis Sachar, Clive and Dirk Cussler, Pamela Furgeson, Deanna Roy, Michael Allen Austin and Leigh Purtill were among the many “Authors for Access” who joined local volunteers in studios across the country.
