In December of 2004, a natural disaster swept across much of the Indian Ocean, destroying schools, dismantling villages, and devastating the lives of citizens of Sri Lanka and other developing counties. In response, students, faculty and parents from over 200 schools amazed us with their fundraising efforts and creativity. Through read-a-thons, wristband campaigns, auctions, and numerous other activities, students raised over US$400,000 to assist in the rebuilding effort. With their help, Room to Read has been able to rebuild 17 schools in Sri Lanka thus far, with another 22 to be completed by the end of the year. Their contributions have enabled us to fund operations in Sri Lanka for the next 2 years. The creativity with which schools raised money has inspired and astounded everyone in the Room to Read organization and beyond!

Through our Students Helping Students program, students will learn about the geography, language, and culture of the countries in which we work. They can also read about the day to day lives of the children they are helping and the work that Room to Read does to foster education. Furthermore, students develop leadership skills, creativity, and the courage to get involved and make a difference through fundraising campaigns that help generate funds for Room to Read programs abroad.