March 9, 2023 | Zarria Bratts
Hello book lovers! My name is Zarria Bratts and I am so excited to join the Book Harvest team as Development Coordinator! I was born and raised in Durham and I love everything that the growing city has to offer. When I’m not hard at work, you can find me trying out new restaurants, completing sudoku puzzles, or scrolling endlessly on Twitter.
I gained several customer service skills while working in my very first role as a Birthday Party Host and Game Attendant at a local fun park. While completing my B.A. in Communication-PR at NC State University, I was given the opportunity to utilize a few of those skills as a Resident Advisor. Upon graduating in December 2021, I transitioned into another customer service role at a local lab supply company. Throughout all of these experiences, I discovered that I have a heart for service and a strong desire to ensure that all people feel heard and supported.
In my youth, I was fortunate enough to have access to a multitude of books and learning resources (Hooked on Phonics, anyone?) that were not afforded to most children who looked like me. As an adult, I now realize the tremendous privilege I experienced growing up and I feel a large responsibility to help provide these resources to the children and families who are otherwise overlooked.
As I reflect on my time as a book sorting volunteer nearly 10 years ago, I feel immensely grateful for the opportunity to reconnect with Book Harvest and give back to the community that shaped me. I want to help ensure that the youth are given the opportunity to grow and excel along with the rapidly growing Durham community, and surrounding communities. I am so honored to work alongside others who are committed to the incredible mission that is mirrors, windows, and sliding glass doors for all youth.