Our Mission
To increase literacy and build self-esteem, self-worth, and belonging in children through meaningful author visits, engaging literacy events and camps, a teen publishing program, and creative media like the Cosmo the Alien YouTube channel—bringing stories to life in every school and community we serve.
Programs
Helping kids grow as readers, creators, and confident individuals through literacy and mindset experiences.
Author Visits
We visit schools with our children’s book You Really, Truly Do Belong, inspiring students to read while building self-esteem and belonging. Each visit includes an engaging assembly, interactive Q&A, and follow-up resources for teachers.
Literacy Camps
Our camps make reading fun while strengthening self-esteem. Students dive into story creation, art projects, improv, and even writing and performing their own plays. Every activity builds literacy, creativity, and confidence.
Teen Publishing
We empower juniors, seniors, and college students to publish their own books. Each teen is paired with a professional editor, illustrator, and cover designer. Monthly Zoom masterclasses with agents, bestselling authors, and marketers teach the business side of being an author—real entrepreneurial training for young writers.
Cosmo the Alien YouTube Channel
Our animated series combines sing-alongs and storytelling with lessons in belonging, teamwork, speech, and self-esteem. Through Cosmo, kids learn ABCs, confidence, and life skills in a way that’s fun, musical, and memorable.
More than a book reading.
It’s a mindset experience.
EmpowerLit Author Visits combine storytelling, literacy, and resilience—helping students see that they already belong.
Impact
Every visit, camp, and program leaves a mark—on students, classrooms, and communities.
15+
Schools booked this fall
7k+
Students reached
50+
Equipped with follow-up classroom resources
What the Students Are Saying:
What Schools Are Saying:
Jessica Flowers (Media Specialist Manchester Elementary)
"This visit wasn't just about literacy; it was about hope. Gina gave our students something priceless: the belief that their stories are worth telling."
Carrie Boos (Media Specialist Carolina Beach Elementary)
"We loved how the entire school contributed to writing a collaborative book--it sparked creativity and boosted interest in storytelling across grade levels."
Frances Landeros (Media Specialist Yates Mill Elementary)
"We highly recommend the EmpowerLit program to any school looking to inspire students and foster a love of reading, writing and personal growth."
Community Partners & Sponsors:
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Ways to Help:
Every dollar fuels direct student impact. Choose how you want to plug in.
FAQ
What ages do you serve?
We tailor K‑12 programs by grade band (PK‑2, 3‑5, 6‑8, 9‑12) with age‑appropriate content.
How much does an author visit cost?
Standard honorarium is $1,500 per day on‑site (travel varies). Sponsored visits are available—ask about 'Sponsor a School.'
What does an author visit entail?
Elementary Schools
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An interactive read-aloud of You Really, Truly Do Belong
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Core messages on belonging and confidence
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A fun, high-energy “Belonging Sing-Along”
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Hands-on activity: creating a simple book to learn character and story development
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Middle School & Higher
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A short film screening of You Really, Truly Do Belong
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Speaking session on belonging, self-esteem, and positive self-talk
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Practical tools for teamwork and supporting peers
How long is an author visit?
Most visits run 30–45 minutes, with flexibility to fit class schedules or assemblies.
Can you present to multiple groups in one day?
Yes—we can run back-to-back sessions for different grade levels or groups