A select group of kids will be treated to a party at McDonald’s for spending time in the pages of a book this summer. Eighty-five kids from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming have completed eight hours of reading in the summer reading program at the Club. Sponsored in part by Casper area McDonald’s restaurants, members at all Club sites were encouraged to read at least 20 minutes a day and received incentives each time they reached a two-hour milestone. Those who have read eight hours or more will be treated at a celebratory party at their nearest McDonald’s.

Verda James Club – August 19, 2 p.m., 40 SE Wyoming Blvd.
Mills & Paradise Valley Clubs – August 20, 11 a.m., 4010 Plaza Drive
Main Club – August 24, 11 a.m., 600 West F Street

“As parents and grandparents, ​my husband Tim and I have s​​een how kids do better in school if they read during the summer months. It’s a great way for kids to learn, to grow and to experience new ideas,” said Sheri Postel, Casper McDonald’s restaurant owner. “As business owners in this community, we feel it’s important to invest in our youth and invest in the next generation of our workforce.”

More than 1,200 Club members were exposed ​to​ the reading program. Each participating child received a folder to track time spent reading, books read and a summary to track comprehension. In addition, Club youth were partnered with kindergarten and 1st graders to develop reading skills and confidence among younger members.

According to the Wyoming Department of Education, “when students read during the summer, even as few as 4 to 5 books, they tend not to experience summer slide.” Summer vacation tends to break the routine of regular instruction which can lead children to forget and require catch up and review once school starts again.

Thank you to Tim and Sheri Postel and Casper area McDonald’s restaurants for supporting summer reading at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming!