The dictionary defines “volunteer” as a person who performs a service willingly and without pay; or to offer oneself for some service or undertaking.

With all due respect to the lexicographers of the world, these definitions hardly suffice. As the Senior Vice President responsible for First Book’s community development and Advisory Board strategy I have the honor and privilege of working with and meeting Advisory Board members from around the country and I continue to be humbled and amazed by the dedication, enthusiasm, and results demonstrated by this diverse group.

Hardly a day goes by when I don’t marvel at how fortunate I am (and we all are) for the opportunity to work with and learn from such a dynamic group of individuals.

During Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 15th- April 21th) please join me and the rest of First Book in thanking the members of our volunteer-led Advisory Boards for spreading the magic of reading within their local communities.

Because of the work of First Book Advisory Board volunteers, thousands of children have experienced the joy of owning their own books; because of the work of First Book Advisory Board volunteers, countless after-school programs have been enabled to serve their communities; because of the work of First Book Advisory Board volunteers, many of us know what its like to work with everyday heroes. Heroes to the children they serve, heroes to the local literacy programs, and heroes to all of us at First Book.

The dictionary defines a “hero” as a person who, in the opinion of others, has valiant qualities or has performed a laudable act and is regarded as a model or ideal.

Yes, that sounds about right. Please join me and the rest of First Book in thanking our Advisory Board heroes.