Dozens of volunteers from Ashford University spent Saturday, July 20, donating their time to the Teichert Branch Library of the Boys and Girls Club. The Ashford volunteers, working in collaboration with Sacramento READS!, spent the day organizing more than 1,000 library books according to reading level. The event was the latest effort for the S.T.A.R. Program, Ashford’s student, faculty, and staff volunteer initiative.

“Sacramento READS! was thrilled and excited to partner with Ashford University for this day of service,” said Symia Stigler, deputy director of Sacramento READS! “Ashford University is committed to Sacramento and giving back to our community. This first day of service shared with the Boys and Girls Club was the beginning of a growing partnership, and we look forward to collaborating with many other organizations in the Sacramento area.”

The organizing of books, also known as leveling, makes it easier to select level appropriate books for children. It provides a way to assess children’s progress over time and offers opportunities for children to increase their reading power by experiencing diverse texts.

Ashford University's Sharing Time and Resources (S.T.A.R.) Program provides the opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to give back to their communities by volunteering. Through the S.T.A.R. Program platform, Ashford representatives can search for organizations or specific volunteer opportunities. For more information, visit the S.T.A.R. Program page on www.ashford.edu.

About Ashford University

Ashford University is defining the modern college experience by combining the heritage of a traditional campus with the flexibility and effectiveness of online learning. The University provides a vibrant learning community where high-quality programs and leading-edge technology create a dynamic, immersive and stimulating learning experience. The University offers practical and progressive associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs online, as well as bachelor’s degree programs at its Clinton, Iowa, campus. Ashford University – where heritage meets innovation. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Winet Rodriguez, vice president of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.