My Nonprofit Reviews

For the past 15 years, the third Saturday of the month has been a day of joy as I watch 25-30 mothers connect with their babies the best way they can. In the book room I watch them struggle to pick JUST the right book for each of their precious children. They sit in the group circle waiting to be called to read their chosen book(s). During this time, they write heartfelt notes into their book, sometimes tracing their hands and inviting their child to "hold hands" with them. Quietly they practice reading the book so they can read it just right for the recording.

When it is finally their turn to sit one on one with a volunteer who will record them reading, sometimes the emotions overwhelm them and tears fall. Or, in recognition of the child's upcoming birthday, the mother sings a heartfelt Happy Birthday song,feeling thankful she can send her child the gift of her voice.

After the recording is over, the offender takes the book and recording to the computer room where the CD they will send their child is created. Meanwhile, she decorates the case with hearts and messages of love.

Finally they come to me to pack their precious gifts into mailers and label it to their child/children. As they pack, they nearly always share their thankfulness for this program, often asking how they can get involved when they are on the "outside". But this last weekend, I was incredibly moved by what one mother said to me.

She has been in Storybook as often as she can for several years. She explained to me that the unit is currently sending offenders with "heat warnings" to other units that are air conditioned. What she said next took my breath away. "I qualify to move but I told them I didn't want to be moved because I don't want to take a chance of loosing Storybook! Hearing my voice is just too important for my kids!"

The children who receive these books are blessed to hear their momma's voice. Many carry them around close to their hearts or listen every night as their voice soothes them to sleep. What a differece this organization makes in lifes! I am blessed to be a tiny cog in this hugely meaningful project!