Teen Spreads Joy Reading to Special Needs Kids

Quick Smiles:

• Asher Rosenfeld began reading to special needs children during the pandemic and continues five years later.
• The program, Audibles with Asher, offers weekly Zoom reading sessions to foster friendship and connection.
• Asher partners with nonprofit Friendship Circle and donates books to participants, spreading joy and understanding.

When the pandemic made gathering difficult, Asher Rosenfeld found a way to bring comfort and community to special needs kids through his reading program, Audibles with Asher. Each week, families look forward to these virtual sessions that spark imagination and foster enduring friendships.

The online sessions have made it possible for children and young adults of all abilities to participate from the comfort of their homes. Parents call the program a lifeline, with Asher building empathy and strong connections through each meeting.

“The same kids I started reading with at the start of seventh grade I am reading with again at the start of my senior year,” he said.

“We grew up together and have developed incredibly meaningful relationships with each other throughout these years.

“Over time, I’ve realized it’s not actually about the books, it’s about the connection that happens while we’re reading and hanging out. That’s the part that’s stuck and the part that matters most to me.”

Not only does Asher read, he also donates and ships favorite books to each participant, deepening the joy. Working with Friendship Circle this year, he is helping to create even greater understanding and appreciation for people with special needs.

Families love the experience, with Karen, a parent, sharing, “Asher is so kind and reads beautifully to my girls.”

“Reading brings the imagination to life; it takes us beyond our everyday world and brings us into someone else’s—which is so special and so cool,” Asher shared.

“I love to read and I’m thrilled to be able to share my passion reading one-on-one and connecting over stories that we can enjoy together.”

Want to make a difference? Share this uplifting story and kindle new reading adventures for others!

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