What does it mean to give someone a chance? Sometimes it means providing something practical: an education, medical care, safety, a skill or simply the belief that a better future can be built.
John Wood founded Room to Read after a career in technology, focusing his efforts on literacy and girls' education.
A Life That Opened Doors
What began as a conviction that books and schooling should be within reach grew into an international educational nonprofit. Reading is more than a classroom skill: it opens paths to curiosity, independence and opportunity.
There is a lesson here for all of us. Lasting acts of kindness rarely happen in isolation. Volunteers, colleagues, neighbors and the people receiving help are part of the story, too. The most meaningful recognition celebrates that shared effort.
The Chance They Gave
He helped expand access to books, literacy instruction and education.
How You Can Give a Similar Chance
Volunteer with local literacy programs; donate books that a school actually requests; read with a child regularly.
A small chance to give today: Choose one action you can take where you live. An act of kindness does not have to be famous to matter.
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Chance Champions is an appreciation series created by Chances.org, not an official award or endorsement by the person featured. Explore more Chance Champions.
Know an everyday Chance Champion? We would love to hear about a neighbor, volunteer, teacher or caring stranger whose actions changed someone's life. Share a story, with permission for any personal details.