We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful April Austin. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with April below.
April, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.
I love to read! When I became a mother, I wanted to instill the love of reading in my children. So, for my oldest child’s first birthday, I bought her a book. On her 2nd birthday, I took her to the bookstore and helped her select a book. For her third birthday, she was excited to pick out her own. She came to love the tradition, and it made her excited about reading. It’s a tradition that I shared with all my children, and they became avid readers!
There is something special for a child to hold a fresh, new book in their hands…one brand new that they can call their very own! It helped encourage my children to love reading and expose them to new worlds and possibilities. It’s my hope to give that opportunity to other children, especially those who may not have the resources to purchase books on their own. So, I founded Spread Hope Inc., a 501c3 nonprofit organization promoting literacy among underprivileged children.
April, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Spread Hope, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting literacy and education among youth. We believe that empowering young minds through reading and learning can break cycles of poverty and unlock brighter futures. Our programs are designed to inspire, educate, and uplift the next generation of leaders. Through community partnerships and passionate volunteers, we aim to create lasting change, one student at a time.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
Like many women, I am guilty of thinking that if I can just multitask and prioritize enough, that I can accomplish EVERYTHING that needs to get done. However, in doing so, I sacrifice my wellbeing in the process.
I learned that it is okay to ask for help. It is okay to share the load and responsibilities. In the end, I can get much further with a team.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
You’re Not Listening by Kate Murphy is a book that can help facilitate communication in any work environment. True listening is a lost art. This book helped me engage with others, including my team and potential sponsors. I’ve also been able to apply it’s strategies at home. I highly recommend it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://spreadhopeinc.wixsite.com/spread-hope-inc-1
- Instagram: @spreadhopeinc
Image Credits
AI generated images