An Open Letter From Vince CarterI have been reading for as long as I can remember. My parents, both educators, taught me from an early age how important it was to be able to read and understand what I read. There is so much to enjoy through reading. Sometimes when we are in school we get tired of reading because it is school related, but that, too, is extremely important. Embassy of Hope
 Toronto Raptors basketball star Vince Carter talks with a large group of kids Saturday as part of his annual fund-raising festival for the Embassy of Hope Foundation. (Photo: News-Journal/Brian Myrick) | |
I will receive my college degree May, 2001, from the University of North Carolina, and my ability to read and understand was the cornerstone to my success. Believe it or not, I have to read as a National Basketball Association player. Not only do I have regulations that I must follow from the NBA, I also have lots of contracts to read and understand. That is my livelihood! I really can't imagine a world without reading. You can go anywhere you want to go, be anyone you want to be, and do anything you want to do. Wow, what fun! Remember that it doesn't matter how many things you are good at doing, being able to read and knowing what you have read will give you the foundation and vehicle to conquer any dream or goal you have. I set my goals at a very early age. I always knew that I wanted to be an NBA player. I also knew that getting an education was a critical element for my success. As you read about my fellow professionals and learn the lifelong skills of reading, remember that your success depends on you and the decisions you make. Reading IS fun. Enjoy it!
HICI Special Report — Sports: Hometown Heroes
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