SUMMARY

Aura worked as a programming fellow with Start Lighthouse. Start Lighthouse addresses the literacy crisis in the South Bronx with a three-pronged approach to create compelling, rewarding reading experiences for children and families. There, she provided critical support in helping launch the organization’s first Literacy Hub in what was once an abandoned school library. Aura served as a thought partner to the executive director, collected student data, created curriculum for student workshops, and developed daily programming, allowing her to connect with youth through literature. Her passion and commitment led leadership at Start Lighthouse to offer her a full-time position at the end of the fellowship, becoming a core member of the organization’s founding team.

OVERVIEW

Facilitated student workshops with award winning children’s book authors and illustrators
Tracked relevant student data to understand proficiency levels and student needs
Researched culturally relevant book titles and materials to support programmatic aims
Developed engaging, developmentally appropriate curricula for students from pre-k to eighth grade
Created visual program materials using Canvas and Adobe Creative Suite

IMPACT

Aura worked with over 700 students, distributed over 1,200 books for students’ home libraries, facilitated over 20 workshops, and hosted 7 author and artist visits.