Meet Beverly Rice - A volunteer bringing literacy to the forefront

I’m thrilled to spotlight volunteer Beverly Rice, a lifelong advocate for literacy and equity who brings her passion and expertise to every volunteer opportunity she takes on.

Beverly generously gives her time to an incredible list of organizations, and she’s committed to creating a more informed, empowered, and connected community.

A former reading specialist of over 20 years, Beverly continues to share her gift by helping others discover the power of reading. And the impact goes both ways, volunteering has deepened her sense of purpose and fulfillment: “To share my gift of reading with so many others helps me to know that my living is not in vain.”

We are beyond grateful to have Beverly in our volunteer community. She is a shining example of what it means to serve with heart, purpose, and vision for a better Atlanta.

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Which Nonprofit Organization(s) do you volunteer with?

RICEIncLiteracy, Atlanta-Fulton County Library Foundation, Democratic Party of Georgia, Fulton County Democratic Party, Georgia Association of Educators- Retired

What impact areas or pressing needs facing Atlanta do you care about most? Why?

The lack of educational skills and the need for job training is the most pressing need in Atlanta.

What do you love most about an organization you volunteer with? Why do you volunteer with them?

What I love most about the organization I volunteer with is the difference it makes in n the lives of others. I believe developing proficiency in reading is an avenue to empower a community to a more enhanced life.

How has volunteering impacted your personal/professional life?

I have always known the power of reading. I was a reading specialist for over twenty years. To share my gift of reading with so many others helps me to know that “ my living is not in vain”.

“Reading is the one essential aspect of life that can transform your mind, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.”

— Beverly Rice

What skills have you honed or what have you learned through your experience as a volunteer?

Although I am a retired educator, I continue to work with students in low-performing schools to ensure they are receiving skills that will prepare them for life.

Can you share a memorable highlight or moment you've experienced that might motivate others to volunteer?

Volunteering is simply sharing the Gift that God has placed within you with others. As I hear those whom I have taught say to me, “it’s because of you”. I know that what I am doing is worth the sacrifices I har made.

Why Atlanta? What do you love about this city and/or tell us a bit about some of your favorite Atlanta things - people, places, things to do, etc.

Atlanta is a place where there are both opportunities and needs. My children and grandchildren are all a part of the Atlanta fabric. My favorite places in Atlanta are the parks. I love the outdoor space. To visit the various parks and explore nature is awe inspiring.

“Volunteering is enriching. When you are assisting others, it takes your mind away from negative thoughts and experiences to a rich, rewarding life.”

— Beverly Rice

Volunteering in April? Share where, when and if others can join you or how they can get involved.

Every Saturday in the month of April I will be at the Adamsville-Collier Heights Library imparting reading skills to adults. The time is from 10:00am-12:00pm!