Knead to Read

Feeding a child's mind fuels everyone's future.

    Knead to Read was conceived in 1998 by three certified massage therapists in Petoskey.  Their common goal was to find a way to give back to their community.

    By accepting donations for their talent in chair massage--the "knead"--a fund was created for children to buy books--the "read."  Thus was born Knead to Read,  a philanthropy intended to spark and enhance the reading skills of early elementary students.

    Once a month at Horizon Books, the therapists provide 10-minute chair massages for the public in exchange for donations.  Those donations provide funds for selected students to purchase books, which they take home and keep.  Children choose their own books, or Knead to Read goes mobile as Words on Wheels to the school.

    The original chapter of Knead to Read has touched hundreds of children's lives and just celebrated giving away its 1,000 book.   Grants and private gifts expanded the program to serve children from three counties in northern lower Michigan.  Now a Marquette chapter has been launched.

    Here are some comments about Knead to Read from children and educators:

    "Thank you for the books.  My mom read me a story.  I shared the alligator book with my little sister.  The massage felt great."  --Kayla, 2nd grade

    "Each one of the children came back to school thrilled with their new books and their tour of the bookstore.  Thanks to all of you for your donation of massages, which made this possible."  --Petoskey principal

    "Thank you for the two books and lamb.  My whole family read my books."  --Kristina, 1st grade

    For more information call our store (231) 347-2590 or email Knead to Read at knead2read@hotmail.com.

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