Words Alive

About

Words Alive is a nonprofit organization based in San Diego, founded in 1999 by Leslye Lyons. Its mission is to inspire a commitment to reading and promote literacy as a means for lifelong learning and community engagement, particularly for underserved populations. The organization serves approximately 4,250 individuals annually, supported by 975 volunteers who dedicate thousands of hours to its initiatives. The organization offers a range of literacy programs, including the Adolescent Book Group, which provides book clubs for teens facing challenges such as unstable housing or involvement in the justice system. Words Alive also engages families through shared reading activities to enhance home literacy practices. The organization prioritizes culturally relevant literature, ensuring that participants see themselves in the stories they read, which fosters a sense of identity and belonging. Through partnerships with schools and community organizations, Words Alive distributes diverse books and curriculum materials to support its mission of equity in literacy.