On Saturday, June 14, 2025, members of Newtown AYLUS volunteered to host a reading session for elementary schoolers. As a group, they read two interviews about Jane Goodall, the world’s foremost expert on chimpanzees. Through introducing young readers to these interviews, the Newtown AYLUS team aimed to not just improve their literacy, but more importantly instill a deep appreciation for the work that Jane Goodall put in to help better our understanding about our closest animal relative, the chimpanzee.
Three members led the initiative, guiding a group of 12 children. They created a nurturing space for young readers to improve their reading skills as they took turns reading aloud. Furthermore, at various critical points in the interviews, Newtown AYLUS led discussions surrounding the importance of Goodall’s research and findings as well as her resolve to use unconventional research study methods and pursue a career she knew nothing about at the start of her journey.
The event was very successful. The children demonstrated a strong grasp on Goodall’s work and research on chimpanzees and the importance of her endeavors.
Members who participated were Kylee Guo (event leader), Diana Zhang, and Eric Chen. Each contributed an hour of their time.