Erica Kraus

Volunteer at Sullivan House since 2004

How did you get involved with TRC?

I tutored in college in the DC school system and with For the Love of Children. When I graduated and moved to Arlington, I looked for an organization that would combine my two social passions: homelessness and education. I found The Reading Connection online and it was the perfect fit.

Why do you think reading to children is such an important goal?

Sharing reading with children builds on the foundation of curiosity and imagination that they inherently have so that they grow into adults who constantly seek knowledge and learning.

What books, in your experience, do children really love?

Children love books that give the opportunity to participate, either by reading along, helping finish a rhyme, finding hidden pictures, or making up part of the story. However, I think a lot of it has to do with how the book is read - pretty much any book can be fun.

What was your favorite book as a child?

I loved Tell Me a Mitzi by Lore Segal and Cars and Trucks and Things That Go by Richard Scarry.

How has your love of reading affected your life?

The books I've read - both fiction and nonfiction - have taught me so much about life, the world and other people. They provide a great outlet for imagination and escape and of course provide a friend who always wants to sit on a comfy couch and hang out.

Why do you feel it's so important to be involved in community service?

Sadly, not everyone was born into situations of privilege and advantage that provide them with opportunity. As someone who's always had relatively easy access to opportunity, it's my duty to try and extend those opportunities to others, regardless of their situation. Additionally, helping in the community in any capacity creates connections between people, increasing the sense of community and the individual's investment in its wellbeing.