Gina Martin-Smith, a volunteer for BoulderReads!, has worked with her adult student, Dana Woodward, each week for the past seven years.

The mission of BoulderReads! is to help people discover the power and joy of reading. Volunteers like Martin-Smith receive training and support when they make a six-month commitment to their adult student who desires to learn how to read and write.

Martin-Smith has helped Woodward attain many of the literacy goals they established together. Woodward now reads for fun, participates in writing workshops and a book group, has successfully completed an entire 30-lesson phonics program, uses e-mail, and has a great deal more confidence in herself.

"Gina has helped me blossom. She inspires me to do new things," said Woodward.
"We chose to honor Martin-Smith because of her seven-year commitment to her student," said Carolyn Marino, Student-Tutor Coordinator for Boulder-Reads!.
Marino praised Martin-Smith's supportive attitude. "She knows just exactly how much to challenge Dana to move outside of her comfort zone and do something she never thought she could do," she said.

Martin-Smith, a teacher with training in elementary and secondary education, taught other teachers while in the Peace Corps. "Literacy is really tricky. I have learned to figure out what the client needs and follow that. Many (adults who can't read) feel like they've failed. They are tenuous and need to be protected," said Martin-Smith.

When she is not volunteering, Martin-Smith enjoys caring for and reading with her grandchildren, ages six, four, and two.

For information about volunteering with BoulderReads! or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904.