Bringing Books to Kids: Olivier’s Story

Last month, six-year-old Olivier Cormier was given a unique project at his school, École internationale de Montréal (Primaire): find an organization that helps others and share it back with his class.

One cause had recently become close to Olivier’s heart: “I really like to read,” he explained. “I think every kid deserves a book!”

His mother, Meryl, explained: “He just started reading this year, but he already treasures books and that sense of joy he feels when he opens one, discovers new worlds, and learns through a story. He wants everyone to feel the same way!”

Meryl told Olivier about the Canadian Children’s Literacy Foundation, and how it provides books to children who need them most. As a bilingual child since birth, he was excited to learn that CCLF gives out books in English, French, and Indigenous languages, making them accessible to a wider range of children. He was also captivated by how CCLF’s multilingual logo included Indigenous syllables that he had not seen before, which deepened his curiosity and appreciation for different languages and cultures.

He immediately knew this was the organization he would choose. But Olivier wanted to do more than just tell his classmates about CCLF: he wanted to help out.

Taking money from his own piggy bank, Olivier decided to donate to CCLF in the hopes of helping children like him receive more books. His parents, moved by his generosity, will be matching his gift this Giving Tuesday.

Olivier’s heartwarming act reminds us of how the love of reading and the spirit of giving are often intertwined and can begin at any age; even the smallest hands can make a big difference. Thank you, Olivier, for being a literacy champion, and to Olivier’s parents for matching his donation this Giving Tuesday!