I'm writing because I am preparing a grant request (for) Neighborhood Matching Funds to do a project called El Club de Lectura. This is an after-school Spanish language literacy program for kids in elementary.

The letter of intent was written for Roxhill and Highland Park. Roxhill is on board and I hope to speak with the principal at Highland Park soon. I would love to have one of you join as part of our steering committee. I also need to solicit support from whomever is going to be reviewing the apps for the city. I believe you all have a say on this project. We're asking for $100k.

I'd be happy to share more information with you. This project can touch hundred's of lives and give children a chance to achieve literacy in their native language. Research shows that when children become literate in their home language first they can learn a second language much more readily.

This is especially true for Spanish speakers since English and Spanish are both similar - as compared to Cantonese with a whole new set of characters. Imagine trying to learn to read when you don't even know the words. You can't guess at the pronunciation or meaning of the word.

Please let me know if you'd like to learn more about this project and how you can support it. Thank you for all you do to make our neighborhood a great place to live.

Mar