The Missing Book | S2 Ep. 7: Luis Jimenez on HOPE, Literacy & Community

In Season 2, Episode 7 of The Missing Book, Luz Maria Mack sits down with her friend Luis Jimenez, founder of Helping Our People Evolve (HOPE). Luis shares how growing up in Washington Heights and struggling to read shaped his commitment to young people. He reflects on the teachers who helped him rediscover the joy of reading, the importance of seeing your culture represented in books and art, and why community members should help shape the programs offered in their neighborhoods. They also discuss HOPE’s literacy work, including an effort that gave 500 students home libraries of approximately eight books each. From books and mentorship to arts and food access, Luis’s goal is to make sure people have the resources and support he once wished he had. Learn more about HOPE or get involved: https://helpingourpeopleevolve.org If this conversation resonates with you, share it with an educator, author, or community organizer, and subscribe for more conversations on The Missing Book. 🎙️ Subscribe to The Missing Book Podcast for conversations with authors, illustrators, educators, poets, and storytellers whose voices deserve to be heard. About The Missing Book Podcast: Hosted by Luz Maria Mack, The Missing Book Podcast highlights authors, illustrators, educators, and creatives whose stories deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated. Each episode explores the inspiration behind the work, the publishing journey, and the impact stories can have on readers, families, and communities. #TheMissingBook #LuisJimenez #HelpingOurPeopleEvolve #ChildrensLiteracy #RepresentationMatters #WashingtonHeights