Sheriff Morgan recognized for work on childhood literacy

Newport News Sheriff Gabe Morgan has been named a Hero in the Community.  

Sheriff Morgan was recognized by The Bennett Center for his dedication to promoting childhood literacy in Newport News. Specifically, Morgan and members of his staff spent an hour each week during the last school year tutoring and encouraging kindergarteners and first graders at McIntosh Elementary, a Title I school.   

He also met with leaders in agencies and businesses throughout the year to talk about the importance of literacy and to rally support in hopes of expanding the literacy tutoring program. 

“It’s important to break the connection between illiteracy and crime. One way to do that is by teaching kids how to read,” Morgan said. 

There was so much interest that youngsters in a second Newport News school are now part of the program, which is run by the Life Enrichment Center.

The tutoring also allows children to have positive interactions with law enforcement. 

“Some of them may not have had good experiences with law enforcement, so they were a bit hesitant at first to be with someone in uniform.  It didn’t take long before the students were running to greet and embrace us,” Morgan added.   

“We handpicked every recipient for the wonderful work they are doing to uplift urban communities,” The Bennett Center officials wrote in announcing Sheriff Morgan’s selection.

Sheriff Morgan, along with other community leaders from across Hampton Roads, were recognized at a gala fundraising event for The Bennett Center on November 9. The Bennett Center, a non-profit organization in Virginia Beach, works to break the cycle of deficiency and increase the quality of life for those who live in urban areas, according to its website.