CULLMAN, Ala. – Mrs. Alabama American 2025, Taylor Folks, will host a special reading event on Tuesday, March 3, at 10 a.m. at Karma’s Coffee House in Cullman as part of Project Crown, a literacy initiative held during Read Across America Week.
“Project Crown is a literacy initiative created by Shanita Williams, Mrs. Georgia American, and she has asked other state title holders to collaborate during Read Across America Week to spread this impact all across America,” Folks said. “The movement is dedicated to inspiring young readers to develop a lifelong love of reading while working to close the literacy gap and create ‘royalty readers’ – one story at a time.”
As Mrs. Alabama American, Folks serves as a Literacy Ambassador for the initiative. She said bringing the reading event to Cullman was something she felt strongly about.
“Hosting this reading time in Cullman was truly on my heart because I’ve always desired a platform that would allow me to positively influence others, especially young ladies and children,” she said. “Literacy is such a foundational tool for confidence, growth and opportunity. My hope is that using something as simple as reading together would make a lasting impact.”
Serving as the Literacy Ambassador for initiatives like Project Crown is just one of the many service-driven efforts Folks has undertaken during her time as Mrs. Alabama American. She said her broader mission in the role is centered on service and building meaningful partnerships across the state.
“As Mrs. Alabama American, my role is to serve as a visible and active ambassador for our state,” she said. “I’ve chosen to do so by supporting and uplifting the incredible work that is already happening in our communities. There are so many wonderful nonprofits, charities and local organizations making a difference, and rather than creating something new, my goal is to use this platform to highlight and partner with those that already exist.”
She regularly attends community events, collaborates with local businesses and volunteers her time to advocate for causes that create a positive impact across Alabama.
“My heart is simply to show up, serve well and use every opportunity – big or small – to make a difference,” Folks said. “My desire has always been to be a light for the Lord. By God’s grace and His good gifts, this platform has taken me places I never imagined, allowed me to experience things I once only dreamed of and given me a voice I wouldn’t have had otherwise.”
Folks added, “If I can use that voice to encourage even one child to dream bigger or one woman to step out in faith to pursue her dream, then it’s worth it. If I can use that voice to encourage even one child to dream bigger or one woman to step out in faith to pursue her dream, then it’s worth it.”
Karma’s Coffee House is located at 103 First Ave. NE, Suite 140, Cullman.
