News Summary
YaYa&Co., an ethical home décor brand based in Cleveland, has introduced the ‘Cozy Corners’ initiative to enhance literacy among local students. Founded by Candy Mashmoor, the program aims to create inviting reading spaces in schools for 6th to 8th graders. By donating its products, the brand has fostered improved reading engagement and rewards for top readers. The positive feedback has prompted plans for expansion to three additional schools, continuing the company’s community-focused mission.
Cleveland, OH – YaYa&Co., a Cleveland-based ethical home décor brand, has launched a new initiative called the “Cozy Corners” program aimed at boosting literacy among local students. Founded by Brazilian-born entrepreneur Candy Mashmoor, YaYa&Co. focuses on sustainable production using organic materials and artisan-crafted textiles, including pillows, rugs, blankets, and poofs. The brand is committed to making a positive impact through various community initiatives.
The Cozy Corners program was established through a partnership with East Clark School’s language arts teacher, Ebony Donley, who has a strong passion for literacy. This initiative involves creating inviting reading spaces in local schools, offering students in the 6th, 7th, and 8th grades a more appealing and comfortable environment to read and learn.
As part of this effort, YaYa&Co. donates its signature products to schools, which has led to increased interest in reading among students. Reports from teachers indicate that students have demonstrated improved grades as they engage more with literacy. To further incentivize reading, the program rewards top readers with $25 gift cards, fostering a competitive yet encouraging atmosphere for students to enhance their reading skills.
Feedback from students regarding the Cozy Corners program has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have stated that the initiative makes them feel comfortable and motivates them to improve their reading. The success of this program has prompted YaYa&Co. to plan an expansion to three additional schools in the St. Clair-Superior neighborhood, continuing its mission to support education in the community.
In addition to promoting literacy through the Cozy Corners program, YaYa&Co. has plans to renovate an old factory into a new co-working and child enrichment space, further contributing to the community’s development and educational resources.
Candy Mashmoor founded YaYa&Co. in memory of her daughter, Yaara, who passed away 14 years ago. The emotional significance of the brand plays a crucial role in its identity, combining Mashmoor’s commitment to quality and sustainability with a heartfelt purpose aimed at impacting the lives of others.
As YaYa&Co. continues to grow and expand its initiatives, the company reinforces its dedication to creating positive change in Cleveland, particularly in the realm of education and literacy. The Cozy Corners program highlights the potential for community collaboration to enhance student learning experiences and reflects the brand’s core values of sustainability, compassion, and empowerment.
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Additional Resources
- News 5 Cleveland: Literacy Nonprofit Searches for Permanent Home
- Wikipedia: Literacy
- Cleveland.com: Science of Reading Transition in Ohio Schools
- Google Search: Science of Reading Ohio
- Spectrum News: Boosting Adult Literacy in Cleveland
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Adult Literacy
- Cleveland.com: Impact of Cuts in Literacy Tutoring
- Google News: Cuts in Literacy Tutoring
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