Sheriff's Reading Posse

Dear Crime Fighting Partner,

Did you know 60% of America's inmates are illiterate and 85% of all juvenile offenders have reading difficulties? In Fresno County, incarcerated youth and those in continuation schools are typically four to five grade levels behind. I need your help with a new crime-fighting initiative to improve literacy in Fresno County, which can result in reducing crime.

I WANT TO DEPUTIZE CHILDREN TO READ!

Members of the Fresno County Sheriff's Office are in a unique position to combat illiteracy in our communities. We are partnering with the Fresno County Public Library, Fresno County Office of Education and Central Unified School District in this unique crime prevention effort to get books into the hands of children throughout Fresno County.

Here's how the program will work: Deputy Sheriffs will carry donated children's books in their patrol cars. As they come into contact with children in our communities, they will distribute the books free of charge.

I want to get books into the hands of children, especially those who live in underserved rural communities. That's where you come in. You can be part of this crime fighting initiative by getting children to join the:

SHERIFF'S READING POSSE!

I invite you to become involved by making cash donations, or donating new children's books, for the Sheriff's Office to distribute. Suggested reading material is for K-3rd grades and examples can be found at http://www.readinginaction.org/bookcasts?field_bc_grade_level_tid%5B%5D=23  Books can be delivered to any Fresno County Library or at the Fresno County Sheriff's Office, 2200 Fresno St., between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Cash or book donations can be made to:

If you have any questions, please contact Lt. Kathy Curtice at 559-600-8039 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Thank you for your support. Together, we can make a difference!

Sincerely,

John Zanoni, Sheriff
Fresno County Sheriff's Office