More than a Story: Turning to the Next Chapter

Are you an avid reader like me? Do you know someone who loves stories and sharing what they just read? Still, others out there I bet love tales of heroes and adventures, even if they can’t read.

I think literature is such a gift. That’s why I’m excited to share about this world-wide book club. Aptly named Next Chapter Book Club, it is the largest community-based book club program around the world. In fact, the mission is simple but sweeping a wide-spread impact on lives everywhere.

“The mission of Next Chapter Book Club is to provide meaningful opportunities for lifelong-learning, social connections, and authentic community inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through weekly or bi-weekly community-based book club meetings that include readers of all skill levels.”

Did you get that it said “all skill levels”?! Just picture that world-wide invite. Everyone can come together, grab books, and enjoy community.

How does it work?

Small groups of story-lovers meet, often weekly, all across the U.S.A., Australia, and Europe. The program is run by volunteers. It’s a chance to meet with others to socialize and read amazing novels. Not to mention, some groups share snacks. Local book clubs provide people with developmental/intellectual disabilities new opportunities. People can develop friendships and get out in their community. Further, they can enjoy meaningful discussions on a variety of subjects. Meetings can be held in favorite coffee shops, local libraries, or obliging book stores. Really, any place in the neighborhood could host. Since Covid-19 many virtual book clubs popped up. These connected people who would never have met otherwise due to their distance on the map.

Next Chapter Book Clubs provide members with disabilities a chance to make decisions. This builds confidence. Members work together to decide when they will meet and what book they will read next. Obviously, clubs also consider the desired flow for a meeting, such as whether free social time is before or after book discussion. Two facilitators are necessary to help guide the meetings. Family members or support staff can also attend to assist members of different reading levels. For example, those who do not read can participate by echo reading with someone who does.

Did you know Milestone HCQU West offers NCBC?

That’s right. Several team members completed the facilitator training. We host virtual book clubs every other Wednesday. Our two clubs meet over Zoom from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. If you know someone with an intellectual/developmental disability or autism who might like to join, please share our video. Have them contact us to register.

So what’s next?

Do you see a need in your neighborhood? Consider starting your own book club with Next Chapter. Talk to your library about hosting a group. The opportunity is open to anyone. Next Chapter boasts a variety of volunteers. Students, retirees, family members, or anyone eager to help can be a part of NCBC. Are you ready to make a difference in your community, one page at a time?  Visit the NCBC website for more details. See how you can start, join, or facilitate a club: https://www.nextchapterbookclub.org.

Want to be a volunteer?

Check out more Next Chapter News.