Who we are
With over 20 years of teaching experience and a deep passion for literacy, we help learners of all ages strengthen their reading and writing skills. We believe education is the key to freedom, and everyone deserves that chance.
Mission: To educate and empower adults and children with literacy services.
Vision: A Houston and surrounding areas where literacy is top priority and EVERYONE is equipped with reading and writing skills.
Meet the Founder
As a lifelong lover of learning and passionate educator, I’ve dedicated more than 17 years to teaching students in grades 4 through 7. During my time as an English Language Arts teacher, I saw firsthand how students of all ages struggle with basic literacy skills. My heart broke for our younger generation, and I made it my mission to weave more language, reading, and writing opportunities into every lesson — even within the fast-paced demands of the classroom.
In 2013, one student’s journey forever changed my perspective. She had been labeled as a Special Education student, and I worked closely with her, during and after class, on reading comprehension and writing. By the end of that year, her progress was so remarkable that she no longer required the SpEd designation. Today, she’s grown, thriving, and once shared that the extra time and patience we spent together made all the difference in her life. Moments like that remind me why I teach.
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn how to read and write, no matter their economic background. Unfortunately, literacy challenges extend beyond the classroom. At a job fair in January 2025, I met a man who came in looking for work. He was strong and eager to labor, but couldn’t write his own name. As tears filled my eyes, it was a painful reminder that the inability to read and write can close doors that should be open to everyone.
Communities across Houston are hurting not because of a lack of potential, but because of a lack of literacy. This work is my response to that need.
For me, this is more than just a business. It’s a calling, a commitment, and a lifestyle.
Olivia Handy
CEO Founder of O’Joy of Reading, Inc.
Every Donation Helps Someone Learn to Read.
Reading and writing are more than academic skills. They are life freedoms that open doors to opportunity, employment, and empowerment.
Yet, thousands of people in our community still struggle with literacy every day. We believe everyone deserves the chance to learn, regardless of age, background, or income.
Your contribution helps us:
Provide free one-on-one literacy tutoring for children and adults
Supply learning materials like books, notebooks, and reading tools
Expand our outreach to underserved communities in Houston
Train volunteers and educators to deliver effective, compassionate instruction
Together, we can make Houston a city where literacy is a shared priority and everyone has access to the tools they need to read, write, and thrive.
💜 We make reading FUN-da-mental — with your support!