Volunteering since she was a teenager, Clarissa Gonzalez joined our Ladies for Literacy Guild in 2018, and has been making an impact on literacy and the Houston community ever since. Clarrisa currently serves on the Executive Committee as Communications Co-Chair. In that role, she creates and publishes the Guild’s quarterly newsletter and posts on social media, helping to keep hundreds of Guild members informed about volunteer opportunities, stories of impact, and all of the fun social activities hosted by the organization.

What sparked her interest in volunteering is not because of one specific reason, but from the belief that giving back is an integral part of life. Along with serving as Communications Co-Chair of the Guild, Clarissa also serves as an Auction Chair for the American Heart Association, Grade Level Advisor for the National Charity League for the Woodlands Chapter, and a Middle School Coordinator for the Woodlands Christian Academy.

“Volunteering has impacted my life in many ways. It is fulfilling knowing that I am helping others. It reminds me to be grateful for my life's blessings and the ability to get out and serve others less fortunate. Also, my daughter and I volunteer together with the National Charity League. I feel like our bond is strengthened every time we serve together.”

There are a lot of unforgettable moments experienced by Clarissa during her time with the Guild but volunteering for the Big Awesome Book Sort in 2019 ranks as one of her favorites. She’s also looking forward to creating new memories volunteering with this year’s Reading Roundup program. Reading to children at the school her own children attend, and other schools around Houston. She expressed, “If I have even a tiny part in helping a child love to read, I will know I have made an impact.”

Clarissa’s love for literacy stems from her children and the years spent homeschooling during their early elementary school years. Teaching and watching her children learn to read and later developing a love for reading. Clarissa’s own love of reading is what lead her to winning a statewide readathon in elementary school to benefit children with multiple sclerosis.

Currently, Clarissa has been enjoying “The People's Hospital” by Ricardo Nuila in preparation for the Ladies for Literacy Guild's First Lady's Book Club on November 1st. She also recommends her favorite book, “The Slight Edge” by Jeff Olson, for anyone wanting to add a new book to their reading list.

We are grateful for Clarissa’s dedication and continued support to the Ladies for Literacy Guild and continuing our mission of improving lives through the power of literacy.