Too many children in America are unable read this. Help us change that.
Literacy at an early age is a fundamental component to education. Without the ability to read and read well, children become enslaved to a lifetime of low information learning, resulting in low income, and the inability to be an effective steward of their world.
Rise Raptor Project seeks to promote literacy in two main ways:
1. Literacy focused programs. Each summer Rise Raptor Project conducts a tour of Alabama library branches in support of summer reading programs. Emphasis is placed on how reading can open up an entire natural world and take them places they may never see in person. Books on raptors fly from the shelves and are checked out for summer reading. These programs are always a favorite among low-income children who through the public library systems efforts have the opportunity to see and learn about these fantastic birds and be encouraged to learn more about them and the world they share with us through reading.
As Manager of Outreach Services for the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library, forming partnerships with community organizations is vital. Rise Raptor has been an instrumental educational partner for our youth programs, particularly our Summer Reading Program, which sees about 30,000 children and teens each year. Curt is not only passionate and well-spoken, but he also brings in books and literacy into his talks. He is one of the partners I jump to schedule at any opportunity, and genuinely look forward to hearing. His birds of prey are exceptional animal ambassadors, and always welcome at the library! -Mandy Pinyan, Youth Services Coordinator, Manager, Outreach Services Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
2. Own very own children’s book. Super Powered Studios artist, Claire Johnson, and Rise Raptor Project have teamed to introduce a new superhero to the world, Maximus, The Guardian of Strixland in a new graphic novel written by Curt Cearley. Maximus teaches students valuable lessons on the importance of reading and lifelong learning, and honors the real-world superheroes of our society, teachers.
The story unfolds as students become lost in the great forest. Elation, deception, danger, and plot twists emerge as a variety of new hero characters arrive to teach much needed lessons. At every step there are hidden symbolic meanings, which are explained in the second half of the book. Topics include: the science of flight, birds of prey, endangered species, the foundation of America, and Native American History.
This book will support the education and conservation mission of Rise Raptor Project.
(To make a general donation to Rise simply click “Donate Now“)