Theodore Roosevelt Association Inspires Young Leaders at Boys & Girls Club with I Am Teddy Roosevelt Reading
July 20, 2026
The Theodore Roosevelt Association (TRA) continued its commitment to inspiring the next generation of leaders on Tuesday, July 14, when Executive Director Chris Cosentino visited the Boys & Girls Club of Oyster Bay–East Norwich for a special reading of Brad Meltzer's new children's book, I Am Teddy Roosevelt.
The interactive program introduced children to the extraordinary life and legacy of President Theodore Roosevelt through Meltzer's engaging story, highlighting the values of courage, perseverance, leadership, and service that defined TR's life.
Adding to the excitement, each child brought a teddy bear to the Club and learned the true origin of the Teddy Bear—a story rooted in Theodore Roosevelt's compassion during a 1902 hunting trip that inspired one of the world's most beloved toys. The children also gathered outside the Boys & Girls Club to take photos in front of the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider statue, a local landmark that celebrates Oyster Bay's most famous resident.
"It is always great visiting our friends at the Boys & Girls Club," said Chris Cosentino, Executive Director of the Theodore Roosevelt Association. "They loved Brad Meltzer's new book, and the visit supports our goal to inspire the next generation of leaders through Theodore Roosevelt's life and values."
The Theodore Roosevelt Association regularly partners with schools, libraries, museums, and youth organizations to share Theodore Roosevelt's remarkable story through engaging educational programs that promote leadership, character, citizenship, conservation, and public service.