You might be wrong if you believe the Iron Bowl rivalry revolves around trash talk and touchdowns.
Two Alabama district attorneys launched a friendly competition to raise funds for charity this month. It was inspired by the annual football match between the University of Alabama Crimson Tide and the Auburn University Tigers.
The Offices of both the Lee County and Tuscaloosa County District attorneys held book drives for Reach Out and Read Alabama, a program of American Academy of Pediatrics. This non-profit organization works in partnership with clinics and medical practices to provide books for children who are most in need.
According to a spokesperson for the organization, the two districts attorney offices combined raised almost $6,000 for Reach out, and Read-Alabama. The winner was the Tuscaloosa district attorney's office, which raised $3,230 from the total $5,981.
The money will be used to benefit approximately 26,000 children and their families by two program sites in Lee County -- Pediatric Association of Auburn and Pediatric Clinic -- as well as five program sites located in Tuscaloosa County. These include Alabama Multi Specialty Clinic and Crimson Pediatrics.
The organization states that donations from book drives will be used for books "prescribed to a pediatrician to help families understand their children's developmental milestones." Research has shown that reading books together with children is a good way to foster brain development and strengthen parent-child relationships that will last a lifetime.
According to the organization, Reach Out and Read Alabama currently has 57 pediatric clinics and practices in Alabama. This program serves 40 percent of Alabama's children under 5 years old.
"Illiteracy is a common problem in the criminal justice system." In a statement, Jessica Ventiere, Lee County District Attorney, stated that investing in literacy programs like Reach Out or Read-Alabama is a good investment in children, strong family bonds and safer communities. We are grateful to everyone who took part in the Iron Bowl book drive, no matter who they cheer for.
"Thanks to all who contributed. "We believe strong families create strong communities, and that reading is essential for every child's success," HaysWebb, Tuscaloosa County District Attorney, stated in a statement. We are happy to be able to participate in this great cause and wish everyone a joyful holiday season. Roll Tide!
