News Archives - 2001

The Augsburg College/Project for Pride in Living America Reads Program of Minneapolis was chosen as a recipient for the 14th Annual Minnesota Student Services Award.

The Minnesota Student Serivce Award program honors student service learning programs from around the state who have contributed significant service to improve their schools and communities. governor Jesse Ventura will present the Augsburg College/Project for Pride in Living America Reads Program with the award at the Minnesota State Fair. The ceremony will be held at the 4-H Building Stage on Monday, August 27, from noon to 1 p.m. The public is invited to attend.

The Augsburg College/Project for Pride in Living America Reads Program provides after school programming to help increase children's reading skills and achievement levels. During an after-school book club, twenty-nine college students read books to children and create and share their own stories. The college students involved plan various programs and activities with the children as well as developed a math curriculum with various games and exercises. The Augsburg College/Project for Pride in Living America Reads Program not only improves children's reading levels but also increases their confidence and ability in reading and verbal self-expression.

"What's unique about our program is the story sharing," says Merrie Benasutti, Literary Program Coordinator at Augsburg College. "Story sharing not only compliments the work fo the reading educators in the school, but helps the college tutor develop a positive relationship with the child."

"Our young leaders around the state are contributing exceptional service in their communities — impacting thousands as they help to build healthy, vital communities,' said Governor Ventura. "I'm proud of the fact that Minnesota has the highest commitment to volunteer service in the country — 66 percent of Minnesota volunteer their time, compared to the national average of 56 percent."

The Minnesota Student Services Award is an annual awards program administered by the Minnesota Office of Citizenship and Volunteer Services (MOCVS), in partnership with the Minnesota Alliance with Youth, Minnesota Campus Compact, Minnesota Commission on National and Community Service and National Youth Leadership Council. MOCVS provides statewide leadership and service to the volunteer community. For more information, call 651-296-4731 or 800-234-6687 or visit our website www.mocvs.state.mn.us.