Joel Arquillos helps keep writing and reading alive in Los Angeles

Spotlight: Joel Arquillos, teaching kids the magic of writing

Morgan St. James, LA Writing Examiner

December 14, 2011 -                                                          Like this? Subscribe to get instant updates.

 

There are people who talk about doing things and those who actually do them. Luckily for all of the children who have benefitted from the programs offered by 826LA, Joel Arquillos made the leap from working in a traditional San Francisco classroom to becoming Executive Director of this non-profit organization. His leadership in the community is cherished by kids and their families.

When he chose to join 826LA it was a jump into the unknown. As he said, even though public schools have funding problems throughout the United States, there is some sense of security as opposed to working for a non-profit and constantly wondering where the next money will come from to keep the program alive.

His mother came to this county from Cuba and his father from Spain. He did not grow up with books being read to him, and feels that giving children the passion for reading and writing opens a world of advantages for them, such as encouraging them to ask questions and think situations through. 98% of the kids he works with are Latino and he can relate to them and work with their parents as well.

What is 826LA? 
The 826 program is dedicated to supporting students ages 6 to 18 with their writing skills, fostering creativity and helping teachers inspire their students to write and read. With so many cuts to the arts in our public schools, it has become even more important. The program offers after-school tutoring, field trips, workshops,

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