Kari Kurjiaka, Author at Reach Out & Read of Greater NY

New York, NY – August 5, 2025 – Reach Out and Read of Greater New York is proud to announce an exciting partnership with Barefoot Books through Book Buying Buddies, an initiative that unites 19 partner organizations to collectively purchase high-quality, culturally reflective English and bilingual books in bulk. This collaboration will enable the distribution of over 200,000 culturally reflective books to children across the country, promoting early literacy and fostering a love of reading at the most critical stage of development.

Through this partnership, Reach Out and Read of Greater New York and participating partners, including 10 additional Reach Out and Read Affiliates and other early literacy organizations, have carefully selected a range of board books and paperbacks that reflect the richness of the communities they serve. Titles include bilingual English/Spanish books, books with diverse characters, and stories that celebrate themes of inclusion, empathy, and family bonding.

“Access to books during early childhood has a profound impact on a child’s ability to develop language, literacy, and social-emotional skills,” said Emily Marchese, Executive Director of Reach Out and Read of Greater New York. “This partnership with Barefoot Books allows us to deliver more books to children who need them most, ensuring that families have the tools they need to build a strong foundation for lifelong learning.”

Since its inception, Book Buying Buddies has enabled over 25 organizations to leverage their collective purchasing power, helping to reduce per-book costs and maximize the reach of early literacy efforts.

We’re proud to join Reach Out and Read of Greater New York and the Book Buying Buddies coalition to get inclusive, high-quality books into the hands of children who need them most,” said Nancy Traversy, CEO and Co-Founder of Barefoot Books. “This collaboration is a testament to the power of collective action—and the profound impact it can have in building a more literate, empathetic, and equitable world.”

Supporting early literacy is more critical than ever. Research shows that children who are read to regularly, starting at birth, develop stronger vocabulary, language, and social-emotional skills, setting the stage for success in school and beyond. Reach Out and Read works closely with pediatricians to integrate books into well-child visits, empowering families to read together and bond through storytelling.

“This partnership is a powerful example of what’s possible when organizations come together with a shared commitment to equity and representation in children’s books,” said Erin Henry, Reach Out and Read’s interim CEO. “Telling the stories of the children, families, communities, and cultures we serve nurtures not only literacy and language, but also a strong sense of identity and belonging. The collaboration between Barefoot Books and Book Buddies demonstrates how we can work together to reach more families nationwide and strengthen early literacy on a large scale.”

Reach Out and Read of Greater New York and its 19 partner organizations are excited to distribute these books starting this summer. Together, they aim to reduce educational disparities, promote early learning, and ensure that all children, regardless of background, have access to the joy and benefits of reading.

About Reach Out and Read of Greater New York

For 25 years, Reach Out and Read of Greater New York has been preparing young children for success in school and life by working with pediatricians and medical providers to integrate books into pediatric care. Each year, Reach Out and Read of Greater New York serves over 250,000 children across 230 clinics in Greater New York, with a focus on serving low-income children and families. Learn more at www.reachoutandreadnyc.org.

About Barefoot Books

Barefoot Books is an award-winning, independent, women-owned children’s book publisher based in Concord, MA. For over 30 years, they have created picture books, board books, activity decks, and singalongs for children aged 0–12 that celebrate diversity, social-emotional learning, global awareness, and sustainability. Their beloved singalong videos have garnered over half a billion views on YouTube, and recent accolades include the Stonewall Book Honor for Marley’s Pride and the Pura Belpré Honor for Benita and the Night Creatures. www.barefootbooks.com.

Media Contact:
Kari Kurjiaka
Director of Literacy & Public Policy, Reach Out and Read of Greater New York
Email: kkurjiaka@reachoutandreadnyc.org | Phone: 646-893-7333

Any of the pediatric waiting rooms at Harmony Healthcare Long Island could easily be mistaken for the children’s section at a local library.

Literacy corners in each of the five Nassau County locations welcome families with rows of diverse, multi-lingual books, child-size chairs and tables, and inviting decorations that remind young patients—even before seeing their doctor—that “Reading Will Take You Everywhere.”

The reading areas, set up through Harmony’s partnership with United Hospital Fund, have created a new culture of literacy at the federally qualified health centers, says pediatrician Suanne Kowal-Connelly, MD.

“We have this ability to promote literacy so you see it—it’s front and center,” said Dr. Kowal-Connelly, who is Harmony’s director of pediatrics and pediatric clinical quality. “It just becomes obvious that literacy matters.”

As one of four pediatric practices participating in the third year of UHF’s early childhood literacy project, Harmony Healthcare received guidance, resource connections, book donations, and $7,500 in funding in 2024 to integrate literacy into its practice.

The partnership came at a particularly fortuitous moment for the health system given that, just a week after joining the UHF project, Harmony was also taken off the waiting list for the national Reach Out and Read program, which provides pediatric practices with books and guidance to foster early literacy and relational health at well-child visits.

With both programs in place, Harmony was able to use the UHF resources to build the waiting room literacy corners, as well as expand book offerings outside the well-child visits, and to patients’ siblings.

“It really launched a whole literacy campaign,” Dr. Kowal-Connelly said. “The literacy corners introduce the idea of the importance of books, and then it continues in the exam room.”

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By AMANDA D’AMBROSIO

Crain’s New York Business

“They are able – through books and libraries – to get out of that mindset and explore other cultures, ideas and experiences,” Ableman said. “They can be an architect; they can be a doctor. They may not be seeing that in their everyday life.”
Dr. Genna Ableman

Pediatrician Dr. Genna Ableman juggles the usual clinical tasks at every wellness visit: measuring a child’s vitals, administering vaccines and talking about nutrition. But she also makes time for what she says is one of the most critical ways to improve a child’s health: reading.

Ableman, director of population health at the community-based medical center Settlement Health in East Harlem, runs an early child literacy program aimed at improving reading levels among her patients. The clinic gives out books to children under 5 years old and encourages parents to read at home. “That’s what you do when you work at a community health center,” Ableman said. “I often say that I focus on the social aspects of kids’ lives more than just straight medicine.”

More pediatricians have begun to use literacy to assess kids’ health in the past decade. Research shows that reading to younger kids can reduce the likelihood of poverty and stress later on in life, prompting leading medical group the American Academy of Pediatrics to recommend last September that doctors counsel parents to read aloud to their kids as early as infancy.

Ableman, the child of two educators, grew up in Sheepshead Bay surrounded by books, prompting her to merge her interests in literacy and health care when she was a medical student. She joined the Reach Out and Read program at New York City Health + Hospitals/Bellevue Hospital early in medical school, not only encouraging children and families to read, but also providing health literacy guidance to parents that helped them understand medication labels and navigate the health care system.

“I knew it was something I wanted to bring wherever I worked,” Ableman said.

Ableman joined Settlement Health in 2016 and quickly became the associate medical director of a residency program that trains early-career doctors from Mount Sinai. Her residents already participated in a Reach Out and Read program, but they wanted to grow literacy work at Settlement Health. In 2022 Ableman partnered with the United Hospital Fund on its early child literacy program to build up reading resources for the approximately 1,600 younger patients at the clinic. Settlement Health received a $7,500 grant to equip its waiting room with culturally appropriate books and mini reading couches, hold book drives and develop tools for parents. The clinic hands out bookmarks to families that list common literacy milestones for kids, including when they might be able to flip the pages of a book on their own or say certain words.

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A BOOK FOR EVERY CHILD: 25 YEARS & COUNTING!

October 9, 2024, at City Winery, NYC

New York, NY — Reach Out and Read of Greater New York (ROR GNY) will proudly celebrate its 25th anniversary with a star-studded gala, A BOOK FOR EVERY CHILD: 25 YEARS & COUNTING, at City Winery, NYC on October 9, 2024. The event will commemorate the organization’s ongoing mission of integrating early childhood literacy into pediatric care to help millions of children across the region access the tools for success through books and family-centered care. The evening will feature a special tribute to Eva Mendes, honored with the 25th Anniversary Children’s Literacy Award for her contributions to children’s literature and dedication to fostering a love of reading in young children.

“Eva’s new bilingual children’s book, Desi, Mami, and the Never-Ending Worries, highlights a crucial aspect of childhood development: emotional well-being and mindfulness. By showing children that they are the ‘boss of their thoughts,’ Mendes empowers them with the tools to tackle life’s challenges from an early age,” said Emily Marchese, Executive Director of Reach Out and Read of Greater New York. “Her dedication to bilingual storytelling reflects our shared commitment to reaching all children and families, regardless of background.”

Marchese will speak at the milestone 25^th anniversary event, stating, “We celebrate not only our past achievements but also the children, families, and communities we continue to serve. Every book these physicians provide to a child is an opportunity to shape their future, and this work would not be possible without the incredible support of our partners, pediatricians, and donors who believe in the power of literacy.”

The gala will bring together supporters, partners, and advocates for an unforgettable evening will feature a thrilling live auction, a moving awards ceremony, and heartfelt reflections on the accomplishments of ROR GNY. Over the past 25 years, the organization distributed millions of books to over 7 million children from underserved communities across Greater New York, providing the gift of reading to families in need and fostering a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.

Josh Green, Board Chair of Reach Out and Read of Greater New York, is set to remark. “As we look to the future, we are committed to expanding our reach and ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has access to books and the opportunity to develop a love of reading.”

The event comes on the heels of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) new recommendations, “Literacy Promotion: An Essential Component of Primary Care Pediatric Practice” (2024). These recommendations underscore how programs like Reach Out and Read have a profound impact on early language development, parent-child bonding, and school readiness, particularly in low-income households. The publication highlights how pediatric care providers are in a unique position to support literacy and Reach Out and Read has been a leader in operationalizing this through its partnerships with healthcare providers.

“On its 25^th anniversary, we’re thrilled to commemorate Reach Out and Read Greater New York. In partnership with clinicians, they have provided guidance, resources, and, we hope, a better start to life for millions of children,” said Marty Martinez, CEO of Reach Out and Read National. “The AAP’s new recommendation further validates our work to ensure that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of books and shared reading. Reach Out and Read of Greater New York has helped lead this movement empowering families to make reading a key part of their child’s development.”

Notable sponsors and table buyers include Macmillan Publishers, Barefoot Books, Huron Consulting Group, Deloitte & Touche, Proskauer Rose LLP, NYC Health + Hospitals, Novata, New York-Presbyterian, All About Books, Dan & Regina Olasin, Jack Pace, Jiyang Zhang, Josh & Lindsey Green, Keith Green, Susan Elbe, NYC Health + Hospitals / Elmhurst, Mount Sinai, Montefiore Bronx Health Collective, The Floating Hospital, Books 4 School, Deer Path Capital, Northwell Health, and Stony Brook Childrens Hospital. The funds raised at the gala will help ensure that Reach Out and Read can continue its vital work, reaching even more children and families in the years to come.

25th Anniversary Honorees:

Lifetime Achievement Award: Judith Levine

Honored for her lifetime dedication to early literacy advocacy and her transformative leadership that helped shape Reach Out and Read of Greater New York’s mission and growth. Ms. Levine’s remarkable career as a social worker, combined with her deep commitment to education and healthcare, has shaped not only Reach Out & Read of Greater New York but also countless other organizations, including the Reading Reform Foundation. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing our mission—ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to the life-changing power of books. Ms. Levine has championed literacy from the very beginning, and her thoughtful guidance and service continue to have a lasting impact on the lives of children and families across New York.

Health Equity Advocate Award: Mary McCord, MD, MPH – NYCH+H Gotham Health/Sydenham

Recognized for her work addressing social determinants of health (SDOH) and promoting equitable healthcare access, ensuring that more children and families can benefit from ROR GNY’s services.

Advocate for Diverse Books Award: The Floating Hospital/Queens Bridge

Acknowledged for championing diversity in children’s literature and ensuring representation for children from all backgrounds.

The Jack Pace Living, Breathing ROR GNY Award: Amy Woolever, MD – NYC Health+Hospitals/Elmhurst

Honored for her unwavering commitment to bringing Reach Out and Read’s mission to life, inspiring countless families through her care.

Trusted Messenger Award: Jennifer Chase, MD, FAAP – Mount Sinai School-Based Health

Celebrated for being a trusted voice and advocate for early literacy and her community, helping children and parents make reading a central part of their lives.

Whole Family Advocate Award: Suzanne Dougan – Brookdale Family Care Center

Honored for her dedication to providing holistic family care and promoting literacy as a key element of overall family wellness.

Whole Family Advocate Award: Montefiore Medical Center Bronx Health Collective

Recognized for their comprehensive support for families and their deep commitment to advancing childhood literacy alongside other family services.

New Champion Coordinator Award: Dr. Krupa Lydia Hart, DBA, MBA– Urban Health Plan

Celebrated as an emerging leader in early literacy advocacy, playing a critical role in expanding ROR GNY’s reach within her community.

Past Children’s Literacy Award honorees include Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, Andrea Davis Pinkney, Rosemary Wells, Todd Parr, Robie Harris, Malcolm Jarod Mitchell, and Brian Amador.

For more information on Reach Out and Read of Greater New York and its programs, please visit www.reachoutandreadnyc.org or contact Kari Kurjiaka at kkurjiaka@reachoutandreadnyc.org. Award winner’s bios are available here.

About Reach Out and Read of Greater New York:

Reach Out and Read of Greater New York partners with healthcare providers to promote early childhood literacy and school readiness in pediatric exam rooms by giving books to children and advising parents on the importance of reading aloud. Serving over 250,000 children annually, the program focuses on low-income communities across Greater New York.

Read to Your Babies and Toddlers for Lifelong Benefits, Says New Pediatric Update

If you read to your babies and toddlers, you are giving them way more than just a bedtime story!

When my first daughter was a baby, I snuggled up with her one day in my hazy postpartum sleep deprivation and started reading to her from one of the picture books my mom had given me. It soon became a nightly habit, one that I continued until she could read — and even after.

Naturally, when children are old enough to understand language and show an interest in books, reading to your children is a well-known benefit. Yet when I first started reading to my baby, I wondered if it made any sense since, as a newborn, my daughter surely couldn’t understand what I was saying.

It turns out that I was on the right track, and reading to your toddlers and even babies has immense benefits that can last a lifetime.

American Academy of Pediatrics Wants You to Read to Your Babies and Young Children

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), published a new policy statement on September 29 in the journal Pediatrics online (the new policy statement and full report will be published in the December 2024 print issue of Pediatrics). It is the first update to AAP recommendations since 2014, and is based on extensive research into early childhood brain development.

“Reading together with young children weaves joyful language and rich interactive moments into the fabric of daily life,” says lead author, Perri Klass, MD, a Professor of Journalism and Pediatrics at New York University.

Dr. Perri is also the National Medical Director of Reach Out and Read, a program that encourages early literacy in kids through pediatric care. At routine check-ups, pediatricians give parents tips on reading aloud and suggestions for great children’s books.

According to AAP, reading to your kids should start ideally when they are newborns. Pediatricians even encourage parents to read to their babies in the NICU to foster brain development and bonding.

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Reach Out and Read of Greater New York Partners with Barefoot Books to Distribute 200,000+ Culturally Reflective Books to Children Across the Country

About Reach Out and Read of Greater New York

About Barefoot Books

Read to Your Babies and Toddlers for Lifelong Benefits, Says New Pediatric Update

American Academy of Pediatrics Wants You to Read to Your Babies and Young Children