"Reading for a Bright Future" Inspires Literacy and Creativity in Glynn County Youth

Brunswick, GA — Over 50 children and families gathered at Glynn-Brunswick Libraries on February 8, 2025, for Reading for a Bright Future, a community reading event dedicated to promoting literacy and inspiring young minds. The event was a collaboration between Opportunity Uplifted, Booked and Busy Book Club, and Glynn-Brunswick Libraries, which also served as a partial sponsor.

Children left the event not only with a free book but also with a craft and coloring pages featuring local inspirational figures—including the featured authors themselves. The books, all by Black authors or centered on Black history, were made possible through generous donations from individuals and community organizations, including Dominique Mack of Community Rx, A Better Glynn, and Women’s Voices of Glynn County.

Local authors Ragan "Authenticitee" Flowers (Looking for Jesus), Valerie Williams (Where Are My Manners), and Michael A. Harper (Bigboot and the Dream) engaged young readers with stories that reflected diverse experiences and encouraged creativity. Raffle winners were also awarded autographed copies of each author’s book, further enriching their reading experience.

Beyond celebrating literacy, Reading for a Bright Future aimed to inspire children to pursue their dreams—including creative pursuits like writing and illustrating books. A local mother in attendance emphasized the event’s significance, stating, “Representation matters. I love seeing events like this in our community and hope to see more.”

The impact extended beyond the event itself, as many attendees registered for a library card afterward, reinforcing the importance of continued reading and learning.

Opportunity Uplifted and its partners remain committed to fostering literacy and self-expression in underserved communities. For more information on upcoming initiatives or to support future events, please visit opportunityuplifted.com.

About Opportunity Uplifted

Opportunity Uplifted is a nonprofit organization dedicated to breaking cycles of inequity through culture, education, entrepreneurship, and wellness. By empowering underserved communities with resources and opportunities, the organization fosters creativity, knowledge, and long-term success.

About (book)ed and busy

Booked and Busy is a laid-back book club in Brunswick that celebrates Black writers and storytellers across all genres. Accommodating the busy nature of life, it fosters all community of shared interest. With a flexible, low-pressure approach, members join when they can, selecting books and participating in months that fit their schedules. The club creates a welcoming space where everyone has a voice in choosing what to read, highlighting the rich literacy contributions of black authors.