Mission

Spread the Word Nevada is dedicated to advancing childhood literacy within low-income communities by changing lives one book at a time.

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Our Founders

Laurie Hartig, Founder

Laurie Hartig is a retired elementary school librarian. Laurie graduated from Southern Methodist University with a bachelor’s in education and a master’s Degree from UNLV in Curriculum and Instruction, specializing in Library Science.

During her 16 years working with children in underserved communities, she realized the impact that ownership of books made in the lives of her young students. Although inspiring children to check out books from her library was her goal, she realized that providing students with a book of their own from her surplus supply struck a chord in these youngsters. In those moments, she witnessed the magic of book ownership firsthand. Her students sparkled – they stood taller and prouder.

After 15 years of helping to grow STWN, Laurie left the nonprofit in 2016 to give her family members the support they needed.  We are eternally grateful to her vision and tenacity to get STWN started and on the path to success.

Lisa Habighorst, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Lisa Habighorst is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Spread the Word Nevada, the state’s largest children’s literacy nonprofit. A visionary leader and passionate advocate for educational equity, Lisa has dedicated over two decades to ensuring that every child in Nevada, regardless of background, has access to books, literacy support, and the opportunity to thrive through reading.

Before founding Spread the Word Nevada in 2001, Lisa spent 12 years as an educator, teaching elementary and middle school mathematics. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Oregon State University and a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Her early career in the classroom informed her understanding of the critical role literacy plays in a child’s academic and personal success.

Under Lisa’s leadership, Spread the Word Nevada has experienced extraordinary growth. From its grassroots beginning, she has guided the organization into a statewide force for change, having served over 1.5 million children across Nevada. Her strategic direction has led to the distribution of millions of books, the implementation of robust literacy programs, and meaningful partnerships with schools and communities throughout the state.

Lisa has successfully raised millions of dollars in support of Spread the Word Nevada’s mission, ensuring program sustainability and expansion. Her efforts culminated in one of the organization’s most significant milestones: the relocation to a larger, more advanced facility to support growing operational needs and deepen community engagement.

A graduate of Leadership Las Vegas, Lisa is recognized not only for her commitment to literacy but also for her dynamic leadership in the nonprofit and education sectors. Her dedication to long-term impact, coupled with her ability to inspire and mobilize others, has firmly established Spread the Word Nevada as a vital educational resource and beacon of hope for children and families.