The power of collaboration can drive meaningful change, which is why the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation spearheaded the Literacy Partner Network, comprising of approximately 45 esteemed organizations dedicated to youth and adult literacy.

We are thrilled to shine a spotlight on Chapters of Change, a vital addition to Houston's vibrant literacy network, showing that 14-year-old founder and President Arianna and her family can improve literacy from across the world.

Arianna’s father, David Horsup, spoke highly of his daughter, as most parents do, but one thing that is not common is hearing that she spent her summer vacation learning how to start a charity, Chapters of Change. After spending some time in the Philippines last summer, Arianna took notice of the conditions in remote parts of the islands. Moved by the lack of resources in local villages, Arianna decided to do something about it.

“I remember shortly after we got back, Arianna mentioned she would like to help the children in these villages. She wanted to send books over and potentially set up a library. As we discussed this as a family we landed on the idea of setting up a mobile library service that would travel to remote villages providing them with access to books,” shared David. “She then decided she wanted to formalize this as a charity, so spent her remaining summer vacation researching how to set up a 501(C)(3).”

David Horsup and his family were in for an inviting surprise on January 11th, 2024, when they attended their first Literacy Partner Network meeting, sparking new relationships in the Houston literacy community. Walking away inspired, he and his family learned more about how our Curiosity Cruiser fleet works in partnership with the Houston Public Library, helping them better understand how to mirror our initiative with their version of a mobile library in the Philippines.

“The Literacy Partner Network is extremely effective. Not only did we get to discuss our mission with like-minded people, we also got some excellent ideas on how to solicit books and raise funds. We are excited to be a part of the network and look forward to seeing how we can leverage it to further the impact Chapters of Change will have.”

With the goal of raising 5,000 books and $10,000 by the end of May, the Horsup family plans to return in June to prepare their mobile library and plan the route it will take to visit remote villages and get new or gently used books into the hands of underserved children in the Philippines.

“The focus is to improve literacy primarily of children, but it can also extend to young adults in remote parts of the Philippines,” David continues. “We are trying to help families break the cycle of poverty. If they don't have access to resources, it is difficult for them to learn to read and ultimately get a good education. It is difficult for them to break this cycle. Everything starts with reading, so if we can encourage learning through creating a passion for reading by giving them access to fun and quality material, we can potentially inspire their educational journey, and break the cycle of poverty for their families.”

Chapters of Change is a testament to our shared commitment to Barbara Bush's mission of literacy for all. As we come together under this common banner, we strengthen our collective impact and pave the way for a more literate and equitable society.

Central to this collaboration are our quarterly meetings, meticulously designed to offer our partners not just development opportunities but a platform to foster meaningful connections and collaborations. These gatherings serve as incubators for innovation, where ideas converge, and new possibilities take root.

Join us as we embark on transforming communities in Houston and beyond, united in purpose and driven by the legacy of Barbara Bush.