CONWAY, S.C. -- Kangaroo Express No. 3881 in Conway, S.C., has launched the Roo Reading Club, a rewards program for local area elementary schools to encourage the children--"little joeys" (baby kangaroos)--to read.
"We at Kangaroo believe that being part of the community is what sets us apart from other convenience stores. Kangaroo Kares is more than just a motto, it's a lifestyle. Our associates are always going above and beyond to help out in our community with volunteer work, and now we are getting involved with our local schools," the store said on its Facebook page. "[image-nocss] The purpose of this program is to promote literacy at an early age."
For every 10 books read by kindergarten through second graders, the store will reward them with a small Icee and hot dog of their choice. Since third through fifth graders read larger, chapter-style books, they are being asked to read six books to get a medium Icee and hot dog. There is no limit on how many times a student can be rewarded in this program "as we do not want to limit them in their reading," it said.
In addition to the Icee and hot dog treats, the store is putting readers' names on its "Roo Reading Club Wall" to let the whole community know about their reading success. "Every 'Joey' that gets rewarded will be treated like royalty as we recognize their regal efforts," the store said. "As we literally applaud their efforts, all business will cease and a moment taken to recognize them as they put their name down in Kangaroo History as a Roo Reader."
The store manager will be contacting Kingston, Pee Dee, Conway, South Conway and Homewood elementary schools this week to make sure everything is in place for the new school year.
Headquartered in Cary, N.C., The Pantry is a leading independently operated convenience store chain in the southeastern United States and one of the largest independently operated convenience store chains in the country. As of May 9, 2011, it operated 1,659 stores in 13 states under select banners, including Kangaroo Express, its primary operating banner.
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