02/15/2026
As I serve as Miss Charleston Southern University and prepare to compete at Miss South Carolina, my Community Service Initiative, Leading Ladies in Literacy, focuses on empowering women and girls through education and access to books.
Globally, literacy is still a major issue for women. According to UNESCO, nearly 739 million adults worldwide still lack basic literacy skills and two-thirds of them are women.
In addition, global data shows that women make up about 63% of adults who cannot read or write, showing that access to education and books is still not equal worldwide.
Even with progress being made, millions of women and girls still face barriers like poverty, limited school access, and lack of educational resources which is why literacy advocacy and book access matter now more than ever.
As a representative of Charleston Southern University, I believe literacy is power. When you give a girl or woman a book, you’re not just giving pages you’re giving opportunity, confidence, and a voice.
Today, I am asking for your help.
I am currently accepting book donations to support literacy efforts for women and girls in our communities. Your donated books can help build home libraries, support literacy programs, and place stories into the hands of future leaders.
If you have:
New or gently used books
Children’s books
Young adult books
Educational or empowerment focused books
Please consider donating and helping us lead the next generation of women through literacy.
Because when women read, communities grow.
