Seventeen-year-old Asher Rosenfeld loves reading and has been spreading that love to children with disabilities for over five years. Asher, a 12th grader in New York City, started Audibles with Asher in the fall of 2020 to help children with disabilities stay connected during Covid-19. He reads to each individual participant virtually, and he donates and ships the books as well.

“Reading brings the imagination to life- it takes us beyond our everyday world and brings us into someone else’s- which is so special and so cool,” said Asher. “I love to read because it’s so exciting! You never know what’s coming up on the next page! I am thrilled to be able to share my passion, reading one-on-one and connecting over stories that we can enjoy together.”

Asher has partnered with Friendship Circle, an extraordinary organization dedicated to deepening awareness of the unique challenges and remarkable gifts of individuals with special needs. Those who have participated in Audibles with Asher love the experience. As one mom, Karen, said, “Asher is so kind, and my girls can't wait to read with him each week. [They] asked if they can do it every day!”