Launched in 2003 with an initial project in the Bahamas, Disney Cruise Line's Reading Together program introduces children to stimulating new ideas and encourages them to read and write.

Each month, crew members from the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder take time to support children in growing their reading skills through organized activities, reading aloud in classrooms and acting out favorite stories to engage children in the words on the page.  As part of the Reading Together program, Disney Cruise Line VoluntEARS visit schools in Nassau, Bahamas and St. Thomas, in the U.S. Virgin Islands, to read aloud to children.

The visits provide VoluntEARS the opportunity to have a direct impact on the education of young children over the course of the school year.  

“It is easy to see the children get excited about reading during these visits,” said Vicky Appleyard, Disney Wonder Crew Activities Manager. “The Reading Together program really stimulates their curiosity and imagination and at the conclusion of the school year we know their reading skills are stronger.”

By helping to develop reading skills in these port communities, Disney Cruise Line is addressing a critical educational need in the area.

Crew members also take part in delivering books and school supplies to further support education programs in the islands.