(CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON COUNTY – Organizers for “2014 Jumpstart Read for the Record Day” want parents and caregivers to remember that reading is an investment that can set the stage for a child’s success.

To emphasize the value of literacy, United Way of Madison County and the Junior League of Huntsville are working to break a record on Oct. 21 by asking parents, daycare workers and teachers to read one book, “Bunny Cakes” by award-winning author Rosemary Wells.

Madison county and municipal leaders have proclaimed Oct. 21 as ‘Jumpstart’ day.

“In one day, hundreds of children (up to eight years old) and adults who care about them will come together to raise awareness of the importance of reading by sharing the one special picture book, ‘Bunny Cakes,'” Cathy Miller, United Way’s Community Impact Director, said.

For the third year, United Way and Junior League volunteers are recruiting reading sites and guest readers. The groups “are donating to purchase books, bookmarks and supplies for preschool and elementary school classrooms and libraries and encouraging reading with an individual child,” Miller said.

In 2013, this effort set a new reading record with 800-plus children locally and more than 2 million nationally. Miller said United Way hopes its collaboration with community partners will raise Madison County participation this year to more than 1,000.

“The more children and families we engage in reading, the more doors of opportunity will be opened,” Miller said.

To volunteer, call 256-536-0745 or visit madisoncountycares.org.

Since 1956, United Way of Madison County has invested almost $100 million throughout the community to those in greatest need. United Way focuses on three key areas: education, income for family financial stability and health.

For more information about United Way of Madison County, call 256-518-8203, email to cathy.miller@uwhsv.org or visit uwhsv.org.