Huskers Lead Read to Succeed Book Drive

Lincoln ? The University of Nebraska Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is sponsoring the Read to Succeed Book Drive on three dates in November (Nov. 21, 23 and 30). Student-athletes are asking for fans to assist with the project by donating new or in good condition picture and chapter books. The books will be given to Title 1 Lincoln Public Elementary Schools to encourage families to practice reading and develop a love for reading.

"The student-athletes are excited to sponsor the "Read to Succeed" Book Drive," Student-Athlete Advisory Committee President Ashley Selig said. "We couldn’t think of a better avenue to serve our community than to promote a love of reading and literacy right here in Lincoln. As college students, we enjoy the benefits of reading every day. We hope that Nebraska fans will help put books in the hands of Lincoln children and parents with their participation in ?Read to Succeed.’"

The books will be collected by Husker Student-Athlete Volunteers, on three different events in the upcoming two weeks. Husker Fans are asked to donate books at the following Nebraska athletic events:

? Monday, Nov. 21, Women’s Basketball game vs. Creighton (7:05 p.m.)
? Wednesday, Nov. 23, Volleyball game vs. Colorado (7 p.m.)
? Wednesday, Nov. 30, Men’s Basketball game against Marquette (7:05 p.m.)

The Lincoln Public Schools Ventures in Partnership will assist the student-athletes in the distribution process, making sure they get into the hands of those students who are in need of books in their homes.

"We are very excited to partner with the Husker student-athletes on this project," Principal of Belmont Elementary school and a member of the LPS Ventures in Partnership Committee Deb Dabbert said. "This project is so important for the family literacy program. This will give us the opportunity to send books to the homes so parents can read to students and students can read to parents. When we get families involved, it increases the child’s achievement success. We will also be able to utilize some of the donated books as incentives for reading in school."

At each drive, fans who donate a book can enter to win a prize which will be awarded the night of each game. An autographed volleyball will be given away at the volleyball game, while four prime tickets to an upcoming men’s or women’s basketball game will be the prize at the two Husker basketball games.