"National Read Across America Day" in Atlanta with Heritage Elementary by Dr. Maceo D. Wattley

I had the incredible privilege of volunteering at Heritage Elementary School in the Fulton County School District on Thursday, February 29th, for “National Read Across America Day”. It was a truly touching and memorable experience that filled my heart with joy and gratitude.

This AMAZING opportunity came by way of my GREAT fraternity, the Newnan-Fairburn (GA) Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. When my fraternity brothers reached out requesting volunteers to read to the kids, I immediately knew I wanted to be a part of it. The chance to make a positive impact on the minds of our youth is something I hold dear to my heart.

My sincerest thanks to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated member Mrs. Anitra Ware and her husband, Brother Gabriel Ware, for granting me the honor of reading to the kindergarten classes. Being surrounded by those bright, eager 5 and 6-year-olds was an absolute gift to me. (Take a look at the young girl behind me in my selfie, her smile warms my heart). Their enthusiasm and curiosity were infectious and seeing them soak up every word with such wonderment warmed my heart.

Accompanied by three remarkable men from my chapter—Brother Jeffrey Robinson, Brother Brandon Payne, and Brother Glenn Green—we embarked on an adventure of storytelling and imagination. Together, we shared stories that sparked laughter, ignited imagination, and instilled a love for learning in their young ?impressionable hearts.

As I stood before those children, I couldn't help but reflect on my own journey. Before becoming a doctor and traveling the world as a Global Cybersecurity expert, I was once a little kid sitting on the floor (criss-cross applesauce) in a classroom, looking up to my teachers for guidance and affirmation. Their love and dedication played a pivotal role in shaping the person I am today.

I firmly believe that the seeds of success are often planted in the fertile soil of a nurturing and supportive educational environment. My teachers believed in me, encouraged me, and helped me realize my full potential. Their influence propelled me to author books, deliver commencement speeches, and train cybersecurity engineers across the globe.

But above all, I hope that my presence at Heritage Elementary School inspired just one of those precious children to believe in themselves. Regardless of their background or circumstances, I want them to know that they are capable of achieving greatness.

They are more than a credit card……In other words, they have "NO LIMITS"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

As I celebrated Black History Month on the last day of February, I reflected on the importance of giving back to communities that molded me. We all should remember the profound impact we can have on the lives of our youth. Let us continue to sow seeds of hope, love, and opportunity, ensuring that every child has the chance to thrive and soar.

Gabriel Ware Brandon Payne Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated #kappaalphapsi #nupe #kapspi1911? #nfacnupes #AKA #alphakappalpha #NationalReadAcrossAmericaDay #Volunteering #Education #Empowerment #YouthDevelopment #BlackHistoryMonth #GivingBack #NoLimits #Inspiration #CommunityService #KappaAlphaPsi #FultonCountySchoolDistrict #HeritageElementarySchool #Gratitude #STEM #STEAM