Meet Justin Witt: Improving Literacy Rates and a Quality Education for Low-Income Students

On average, 40% of children in Western India are illiterate, and when literacy rates have a direct correlation one’s standard of living as well as overall economic success, these statistics raise alarming concerns. 
 
 As a teen, Justin Witt aspired to bring social change through innovative means. At 19 years old, Justin runs Storybox books. It is an organization that aims to improve literacy rates, by providing underprivileged kids with access to reading materials.

When asked what inspired him to make his organization Justin responded, “Reading was a huge part of my childhood and I grew up with the privilege of having access to many books at home.” “Yet I have always been aware this same opportunity is not available to many children,” he continued. Aware of the correlation between literacy and success, Justin sought out and successfully established a team in order to kick off his organization.

Storybox Books has been a nationwide success, collecting eight thousand books for kids across nine states, since 2015. By working with schools in the countries, Storybox Books has already impacted children in places like Kenya and Greece. But it will not stop there because Witt is focused on broadening the organization’s reach.

When asked where Justin saw his organization in a few years, he explained that, “In the coming years, of course, our goal is to continue to expand Storybox Books literacy-related projects to every community that we can.” He continued with, “We firmly believe that our goal of achieving educational equity is best served by building a network of passionate youth to support it.” 

Aside from Storybox books, Justin Witt is a student at the University of Notre Dame. When he isn’t studying, Justin spends his free time pursuing his passion for reading, and he enjoys traveling when he is able to.

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