04/18/2026
The Black Child Development Institute-Iowa and Reach Out and Read-Midwest teamed up to host award-winning author and illustrator Don Tate and several other children's book authors, including 12-year-old Saily Bal, LaToya C. Hall, and Noemi Mendez, at the Third Annual Read to Succeed Luncheon on Saturday, April 11th. Both organizations are deeply committed to improving children's literacy rates and fostering a lifelong passion for reading among young children.
Our village came together in a heartwarming show of support, uniting parents, grandparents, educators, authors, and community leaders who are passionate about nurturing the next generation of readers. It was wonderful to see Des Moines Public Schools Interim Superintendent Matt Smith, Findley Elementary Principal Barb Adams, and faith representatives from Burns United Methodist Church, Corinthian Baptist Church, and Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ, as well as many committed BCDI-Iowa members and Reach Out and Read-Midwest staff. This celebration of children's literacy reminds us all of the vital role we play in encouraging our little ones' love of reading, the importance of ensuring children have books in their homes, and the importance of having books that depict them and their culture.
Iowa’s native son, and award-winning author Don Tate, headlined the event. He shared his journey from a child who loved drawing to a successful author, offering students three powerful lessons:
• Persistence: He shared how he turned many "no's" into "yes’s" through constant rewriting and practice.
• Natural Talent: He reminded students that everyone is born with their own unique gifts.
Creativity for Everyone: Through an interactive drawing activity, Tate showed how simple shapes and symbols can become art, even inviting student volunteers to draw alongside him.
• Reading: He told students that reading grows their brain muscles, and he shared that as a kid, he liked reading non-fiction--like medical books.
The luncheon also showcased a diverse lineup of talented authors who shared their stories and wisdom:
• Saily Bah (Age 13): The Urbandale student discussed her self-illustrated book, Rise Above: How To Turn A Negative Situation Into A Positive One.
• Noemi Mendez: Led an energetic bilingual reading of Because She Believed: The Reflection of Possibility, ending with a room-wide chant of the title.
• LaToya C. Hall: Shared her powerful poem-book, Dear Black Girl, encouraging children to dream big and walk proudly in their purpose.
The King Elementary School choir moved the audience with a beautiful rendition of the Negro National Anthem. Beyond the music, the gathering fostered a sense of community, as attendees enjoyed a nutritious meal with fresh fruits and vegetables. In addition to literary inspiration, every child went home with new books, toys, and gift cards, ensuring the celebration's impact continues long after the event ended.
This event was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors:
Gregory & Suzie Glazer Burt Boys & Girls Club
Plymouth Church
Would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Chick-fil-A and Hy-Vee for their generous food donations.
*Photos by Rex Andersen and Reyna Wiederstein.
