Shocking numbers of children in the United States and in Georgia are not reading on grade level. Children who are not reading proficiently suffer from low self esteem and increased chances for poor health. Councilwoman Smith discusses how churches, non-profit organizations, and individuals can help. We also talk about the efforts of the Georgia Municipal Association and the connection between literacy and civic engagement. Learn more about her work at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063834918437.To contact Mrs. Jackson for consulting or speaking engagements, please see the Contact Us page:www.Janiceallenjackson.weebly.comFollow us on Social Media:Facebook: www.facebook.com/LocalMattersPodcastofGeorgiaSubscribe on Youtube: Local Matters Podcast of Georgiayoutube.com/@localmatterspodcastofgeorg3624Twitter:twitter.com/JAJAndAssocLLCPodcast:Soundcloud: Local Matters@localmatterspodcastSpotify: Local Mattershttps://open.spotify.com/show/3rtuvmCNMVWfhcO6hkYXCQ?si=637e0260a38c45c7Apple Podcasts: Local Mattershttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/local-matters-podcast/id1547887548