During this season of giving, The Leaders Readers Network (TLRN) is continuing to create meaningful experiences for educators and classrooms across the Texas Panhandle and beyond. There’s no better gift to give this holiday season than that of a book! As we close out 2025, TLRN fellowship teachers, student literacy leaders, and volunteers came together in Canyon, Texas, to help celebrate the annual Christmas in Canyon Parade of Lights—an annual event where local organizations decorate festive floats and spread holiday cheer to hundreds of families lining the streets of the town square.

Our team worked together to create a festive float that showcased the magic of holiday stories. Together, we helped fill the float with boxes of books that were handed out to children along the parade route. Kids of all ages were thrilled to receive their very own book from their seats in the crowd, and their families were just as excited to witness the joy that literature can spark within a child. Thanks to the support of volunteers and local partners, TLRN distributed a total of 1,000 books during the Parade of Lights! Our volunteers shared their experiences handing out books:

“So much of the holiday season is stories and traditions that we pass down. I have books that I read every year with my family around Christmas that are super nostalgic. I think it just makes the season.” —Student Volunteer

“Community support is helpful for our organization [because it gives us] the funds and resources we need to be able to provide books in our classrooms for all of our students.” —Robin Tarr, Coronado Elementary

While taking part in this beloved holiday celebration, TLRN promoted its mission by demonstrating the positive impact book giveaway programs have within schools and communities. With every spark of joy brought out in a child who received a book came a family who recognized the importance of widespread book accessibility, supporting educators, and fostering a love for reading in the leaders of tomorrow. The Parade of Lights also highlighted the essential role organizations like TLRN play in supporting literacy long after the holidays have ended. For many people, seeing TLRN’s impact unfold right before their eyes reinforced why book access matters. Participation in community outreach events also has the potential to inspire future involvement and support.

With every book given out along the parade route, TLRN helped create a moment of joy, gratitude, and connection that children, and the community of Canyon, will remember for years to come. Through celebrations like the Parade of Lights, TLRN continues to show how powerful the impacts of literacy can be.

Interested in volunteering with The Leaders Readers Network? Sign up today!

As the year comes to a close, consider making a year-end gift to The Leaders Readers Network. Your support helps place books directly into the hands of children, empowers educators, and strengthens literacy across our communities. A gift made before December 31 creates a lasting impact well into the new year—help us continue spreading the joy of reading, one book at a time. 📚✨

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