Reading Legacies’ mission is to facilitate supportive relationships for children through family and friends reading aloud with them.
My name is Chloe Mills, and I am the Book Bridges Program Manager at Reading Legacies. I graduated from The Pennsylvania State University (We Are!) in May 2022 with my Bachelor of Science in Biobehavioral Health, which can be summarized as: The integrative scientific study of how various factors (e.g., biology, psychology, and sociology) impact human health, while simultaneously aiming to develop interventions that combat disparities and ultimately enhance health outcomes.
I was first introduced to Reading Legacies by my lovely colleague and friend, Maribel De La Rosa, when she shared her inspiring story with me: How she went from a participant in the Book Bridges program at Las Colinas Detention and Reentry Facility (LCDRF), to a volunteer facilitating that same program. I immediately knew I wanted to get involved and (after the logistics, training, and clearance processes) joined Maribel as a monthly volunteer for Book Bridges at LCDRF in November 2023. This series of events ultimately led me to becoming the Book Bridges Program Manager in May 2024, and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to hold this position. I look forward to continuing the expansion of Book Bridges in order to connect as many children as possible to their loved ones through reading.
My favorite children’s book is “We’re Going on a Bear Hunt” because my dad used to read it to my sisters and me before bed. To this day, even the sight of this book puts a smile on my face and transports me back to bedtime as a child where I can hear my sisters and chanting: “We’re going on a bear hunt! We’re going to catch a good one!” over and over. :)
My name is Ronald Diaz and I joined Reading Legacies in June 2023. Born and raised in southern California, I earned my BA in Psychology and Philosophy from Claremont McKenna College and have worked extensively with non-profits throughout the San Diego area providing support with volunteer and staff management, program development, community engagement, and fundraising! I’m currently working with the Reading Legacies team to ensure that they have the resources and community support to continue doing their essential work: building relationships and creating reading legacies! I grew up around books and own too many (if there is such a thing), my favorite children’s book is “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (Dr. Seuss), but mostly that’s because it’s the title my son requests the most for storytime.
My name is Macks Fleming and I joined Reading Legacies, following a partnership developed while working at the Logan Heights Library, in January of 2024. My background is in Culinary, having spent over 10 years in the industry, I never shy away from an opportunity to pull out the steel! 🔪
I cherish working at Reading Legacies because of my children, Sebastian & Maya. When I look at the connections from my own childhood, I have fond memories of being read to by almost every member of my immediate family at some point. Reading is important because it inspires you to think creatively and be yourself! ✌🏾
My name is Maribel De La Rosa-Villa. I am a mother of three courageous daughters and a determined son. As a former inmate saved by the grace of God, I know firsthand the importance of family connections from afar. I had the honor of joining Reading Legacies recently, and get to be part of an amazing team that facilitates supportive family relationships through reading aloud. As Family Outreach Coordinator, I motivate and encourage families to stay connected as much as possible, and what better way than through reading? I understand firsthand the hurt we cause our children with our choices and selfishness. Reading Legacies helped my family and I amend that pain and hurt. It is my turn to pay it forward. I look forward to seeing families reunited and healed.
Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. Proverbs 22:6
