Faith DeVaughn

DeVaughn's "The Joy Bookstore" is a self-supported bookstore operated by K-5 students where students, many of whom have no books of their own, can purchase high-quality books at affordable prices. In addition to simple reading pleasure, the books are used for the "Reading Buddies" program in which students across grade levels read together. Students also buy books to donate to a homeless shelter and preschool program and use them for special days like Doughnuts with Dads, Muffins with Moms, and Lunch with Law Officers that bring parents and members of the community to the school. The store creates excitement about books, helps develop self-esteem, and increases academic skills.